The respected Mr. Lammle was a bully, by nature and by usual practice. Perceiving, as Fledgeby’s affronts cumulated, that conciliation by no means answered the purpose here, he now directed a scowling look into Fledgeby’s small eyes for the effect of the opposite treatment. Satisfied by what he saw there, he burst into a violent passion and struck his hand upon the table, making the china ring and dance.

“You are a very offensive fellow, sir,” cried Mr. Lammle, rising. “You are a highly offensive scoundrel. What do you mean by this behaviour?”

“I say!” remonstrated Fledgeby. “Don’t break out.”

“You are a very offensive fellow sir,” repeated Mr. Lammle. “You are a highly offensive scoundrel!”