.. you
have never been over-comfortable in this cell, why not end this
unpleasant state of affairs now--once and for all? You'll not have
cause to regret it. My word on it."
Sir Percy leaned back in his chair. He yawned loudly and
ostentatiously.
"I pray you, sir, forgive me," he said. "Never have I been so
d--d fatigued. I have not slept for more than a fortnight."
"Exactly, Sir Percy. A night's rest would do you a world of
good."
"A night, sir?" exclaimed Blakeney with what seemed like an echo
of his former inimitable laugh. "La! I should want a week."
"I am afraid we could not arrange for that, but one night would
greatly refresh you."
"You are right, sir, you are right; but those d--d fellows in the
next room make so much noise."
"I would give strict orders that perfect quietude reigned in the
guard-room this night," said Chauvelin, murmuring softly, and
there was a gentle purr in his voice, "and that you were left
undisturbed for several hours. I would give orders that a
comforting supper be served to you at once, and that everything be
done to minister to your wants."
"That sounds d--d alluring, sir. Why did you not suggest this
before?"
"You were so--what shall I say--so obstinate, Sir Percy?"
"Call it pig-headed, my dear Monsieur Chambertin," retorted
Blakeney gaily, "truly you would oblige me.
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