But Mr. Trotter made no reply. So Mr. Muzzle proceeded in a solemn manner⁠—

“It’s very probable, sir, that you won’t be wanted upstairs for several minutes, Sir, because my master is at this moment particularly engaged in settling the hash of your master, Sir; and therefore you’ll have leisure, Sir, for a little private talk with me, Sir. Do you understand that, Sir?”

Mr. Muzzle again paused for a reply; and again Mr. Trotter disappointed him.