so obstreperously as to set the
whole company in a roar. 'This excursion for scientific purposes; near
coming to an unpleasant termination; some of your poor fellows, doctor,'
casting a knowing look at the clowns, 'are strongly possessed they brought
me here against my will.'

The doctor smiled.

'Let me explain all,' said Mr. Shaw, recovering breath, and speaking with
preternatural calmness. 'Oblige me first by having those men removed.
Their presence disturbs me. I pity them from my lowest soul; but they
have--it is ridiculous--ha! ha! ha! yes, it _is_ ridiculous--but they have
hurt me very much and disturbed my equanimity. You should confine them
more strictly, Sir, and not let them go at large to murder strangers by
the way-side.'

The doctor smiled.

'In search of relaxation, during the intervals of a great work which I
have in hand, having been made an honorary member of the Tinnecum
Association, I came here for the prosecution of scientific purposes, and
for the collection of botanical and mineralogical specimens, which I have
at present in my breeches pocket.'

RUSTICS. He! he! he! that's enough--see his eyes!

SHAW. (_Smiling._) Doctor, how long have these subjects been in your
institution? Their insanity has not taken a very mild form. Will you
oblige me by removing them from the room? Indeed it hurts me to see the
immortal mind astray.

The doctor smiled.

SHAW. (_Enthusiastically._) As I entered these doors, a most lovely being
shot across my path. It was but an instant; a quick light, a momentary
flash, and all was gone! But it was enough! I saw her! I never shall
forget her. Who is she? That sweet girl has impressed her image on my
soul!

DOCTOR. My friend, be calm.

SHAW. Oh, my dear Sir! understand me. I _am_ calm, I _am_ calm.

DOCTOR. Perhaps you will be so kind as to inform me where your _friends_
reside, and when you left them upon this journey.

'My friends!' exclaimed the professor, with a bitter sneer; 'who are my
friends? Where have I found any whose friendship was other than a name? My
books, my cabinet, my studies, the great work on which I am now
laboring--these are my friends; it is only through these that I shall be
raised to fame. _Sic itur ad astra._'

DOCTOR. I am satisfied that we had better secure----

SHAW. Do you want any assistance, Sir? I will willingly help you to get
these poor fellows to their rooms.

RUSTICS. He's the cunningest we ever seen.

DOCTOR. Yes,