“ ’Twere a pleasure,” bowed Jack, devoutly hoping that Mr. Fudby would not require to see Jenny, who, he felt sure, would betray him by her very evident affection.

“No, no, Sir Anthony, ’tis quite unnecessary, I assure you, but I thank you for all that. Mr. Fudby, if you would describe the man himself, I will see to the proclamation.”

“Describe him, Chilter!” ordered Mr. Fudby, who was becoming rather grumpy.

Mr. Chilter smiled suddenly.

“Certainly, sir!” he said with alacrity. “ ’Twas a great ruffianly fellow, monstrous tall⁠—”

“How tall?” interrupted the town-clerk. “Six feet?”