"
"A most just and discreet description of the passion, my amphibious
comrade!" said the English officer; "and yet the symptoms in your case
are attended by some very malignant tokens. Does your mistress love
tar?"
"No; but she loveth me; and, of course, whatever attire I choose to
appear in."
"Still discreet and sagacious! and yet only a most palpable feint to
avoid my direct attack. You have heard of such a place as Gretna Green,
a little to the north of this, I dare say, my aquatic comrade. Am I
right?"
"Gretna Green!" said Manual, a little embarrassed by his ignorance;
"some parade-ground, I suppose?"
"Ay, for those who suffer under the fire of Master Cupid. A parade-
ground! well, there is some artful simplicity in that! But all will not
do with an old campaigner. It is a difficult thing to impose on an old
soldier, my water-battery. Now listen and answer; and you shall see what
it is to possess a discernment--therefore deny nothing. You are in
love?"
"I deny nothing," said Manual, comprehending at once that this was his
safest course.
"Your mistress is willing, and the money is ready, but the old people
say, halt!"
"I am still mute!"
"Tis prudent. You say march--Gretna Green is the object; and your flight
is to be by water!"
"Unless I can make my escape by water, I shall never make it," said
Manual, with another sympathetic movement with his hand to his throat.
"Keep mute; you need tell me nothing.
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