I never heard such a voice out of a Punch and Judy show.

I set my teeth hard, and glued my eyes to my plate, and held my peace as long as I could; but at last I had to say something.

Up he jumps tiptoeing, ruffling all his pretty plumes, like a little fighting-cock.

'You'll find you have a different person to deal with than the late Captain Brierly.' 'I've found it,' says I, very glum, but pretending to be mighty busy with my steak.

'You are an old ruffian, Mister--aw--Jones; and what's more, you are known for an old ruffian in the employ,' he squeaks at me.