"DEAR SIR,--We learn with regret that, by an inadvertence,
the wrong sword has been despatched to you. We now hasten to forward
yours, trusting that the delay has not inconvenienced you. At the same
time our representative will, with your permission, collect the sword
now in your possession as it is of exceptional value, and also has to
be inscribed immediately for presentation.
Your obedient Servants,
SLASHER AND CO."
"For presentation," I repeated; "then it's not meant to cut with, and
those blobs really are gold." I touched one respectfully.
The latest subaltern pulled himself together and rang the bell.
"When a man calls here for a sword," he told the servant, "give him
this"--pointing dramatically at Yussuf. "And Jenkins!"
"Yes, Sir."
"Tell him that I have just sailed for ... er--for the Front."
* * * * *