If you want to hear what really occurred, call in Agathemer; he was with Hedulio when it happened." "Good idea," said Tanno, "and I want Agathemer here for another reason.
May I call him in, Caius ?" I assented and Agathemer came in, as smiling and obsequious as always.
"Agathemer," Tanno queried, "have you finished your dinner ?" "Long ago," said Agathemer, "and plenty too." "Then, have a chair," said Tanno, rolling himself luxuriously on the deep, soft mattress of one of my uncle's superlatively comfortable sofas.

"No!" he said sharply.

"No demurring.

Sit down, man! Do as I tell you! I've a batch of questions to put to you and you'll be long answering me.

I want you entirely at ease while you talk.