Clem Sypher stood outside, gazing at him with amused curiosity.
Hospitably, Septimus rose and flung the casement window open.
"Do come in." As the aperture was two feet square, all of Clem Sypher that could respond to the invitation was his head and shoulders.
"Is it good morning, good afternoon, or good night ?" he asked, surveying Septimus's attire.
"Morning," said Septimus.

"I've just got up.

Have some breakfast." He moved to a bell-pull by the fireplace, and the tug was immediately followed by a loud report.
"What the devil's that ?" asked Sypher, startled.
"That," said Septimus mildly, "is an invention.

I pull the rope and a pistol is fired off in the kitchen.

Wiggleswick says he can't hear bells.
What's for breakfast ?" he asked, as Wiggleswick entered.
"Haddock.