I could not remember who or what _gradus_ was--whether it was an active noun or a feminine verb or a plural conjunction, or what.

In vain the faithful Dicky prompted me from behind and Graham minor from the side.

As they both prompted at the same time, and each suggested different things, I only floundered deeper.

I felt myself smiling vacantly first at one, then at the other, then at the doctor.

I moved one hand feebly behind me in token of my despairing gratitude to Dicky, and the other I laid convulsively on the collar of Graham's coat.