I was as innocent in thought and intention as a _baigneuse_ at Margate.

[Illustration]

I am sorry that it has been necessary to confiscate my Gladstone bag,

as it contains my linen and toilet requisites.

Certainly my bath sponge is not an explosive.

The programme of _Cheer, Boys, Cheer_, which is said to have been found

in my bag, is of no political significance.

It certainly was not intended to create a riot at Moscow.

It surely is unnecessary to cover me with chains.

I really must protest against being detained in a dungeon three feet

square, in lieu of occupying a comfortable room in the hotel _au

troisième_.

It seems to me harsh treatment to deprive me of all my goods and

chattels, and then refuse to allow me to communicate with the British

Ambassador.

Well, of course, if I must go I must, and I suppose I ought to thank

you for securing my ticket.

But surely you have made a mistake. I wished a ticket for Hampstead.

Very sorry that you should tell me that _you_ are right----from this I

gather I am booked (without appeal) to Siberia!

Punch or the London Charivari, Vol. 109, September 28, 1895 · 第 32 / 32 题