And yet, I repeat, there's some mischief afoot.

This new game of Hymen's, for instance--Before coming down to these parts"-- Mr.Smellie threw a fine condescension into this phrase--"I should have thought it impossible that anyone in the shape of a man, let alone of a Major of Artillery, could solemnly propose to test a neighbouring corps by a night attack, and then as solemnly give warning on what night he meant to deliver it." Mr.Pennefather took off his spectacles and polished them with his silk handkerchief.

"But without that precaution he would find nobody to attack." "I tell you, it's absurd! And yet," the Riding Officer went on irritably, "if one could count on its being absurd, I wouldn't mind.
But there's just a chance that, with all this foolery, Hymen and Pond are covering up a little game.

Why have they chosen Talland Cove, now ?" "I suppose because, for a night attack on Looe, there's no better spot." "Nor for running a cargo.

I tell you, I shall keep the Dragoons on the alert." "You don't suggest that you suspect--" "Suspect?
I suspect everybody.