"
"I have the honor of Mr. Erastus Snaffle's acquaintance," Fenton
interpolated, in a perfectly cool, self-controlled voice, "in virtue of
having had him presented to me by the Secretary of this club in the
pool-room upstairs."
The members of the committee smiled, but the Secretary flushed with
anger. The statement was literally true, and he could not at the moment
go into the rather lengthy explanation which would have made it evident
that his thus standing sponsor for Mr. Snaffle was entirely the result
of a provoking accident rather than of his choice. He hurried on to
cover the awkward interruption.
"Mr. Fenton further broke a rule of the club in neglecting, or I should
say omitting to register his guest, and his share in the matter might
not have been known had not Mr. Snaffle told the servant at the door
that he came at Mr. Fenton's invitation."
Arthur had settled himself in an attitude of placid attention, secretly
enjoying the clever thrust he had given his adversary. At these last
words he sat upright.
"Mr. Staggchase," he said, turning toward the chairman, and speaking
with sudden gravity, "do I understand that I have been summoned before
this committee in consequence of the report of a servant."
"I think such is the fact, Mr. Fenton," was the reply, "but of course
your simple word will be received as ample exoneration.
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