But apparently nothing could affect Ellis, neither whisky, claret-punch nor beer.

He walked steadily between Vandover and Geary, linking an arm in each of theirs.
These two became very drunk almost at once.

At every minute Vandover would cry out, "Yee-ee-_ow_! Thash way I feel, jush like that." Geary made a "Josh" that was a masterpiece, the success of the occasion.

It consisted in exclaiming from time to time, "Cherries are ripe!" This was funny.

It seemed to have some ludicrous, hidden double-meaning that was irresistible.