'Permit me first to speak of the cause of my protracted arrival, sir. Theridicule of casting it on the post-boys will strike you, Mr. Beltham, as itdoes me. Nevertheless, I must do it; I have no resource. Owing to a rascal ofthe genus, incontinent in liquor, I have this night walked seven miles fromEwling. My complaint against him is not on my own account.'