Page:While the Billy Boils, 1913.djvu/56

 his work, to the mutual dissatisfaction of all parties immediately concerned.

'Did you see anything of Smith?' asked Mitchell of The Oracle. 'Seems to have forgot to get up this morning.'

Tom looked disheartened and disappointed.

'He's forgot again,' said he, slowly and impressively.

'Forgot what? We know he's blessed well forgot to come to graft.'

'He's forgot again,' repeated Tom. 'He woke up this morning and wanted to know who he was and where he was,' Comments.

'Better give him best, Oracle,' said Mitchell, presently. 'If he can't find out who he is and where he is, the boss'll soon find it out for him.'

'No,' said Tom, 'when I take a thing in hand I see it through.'

This was also characteristic of the Boss-over-the board, though in another direction. He went down to the hut and enquired for Smith.

'Why ain't you at work?'

'Who am I, sir? Where am I?' whined Smith. 'Can you please tell me who I am and where I am?'

The boss drew a long breath and stared blankly at the Mystery; then he erupted.

'Now, look here!' he howled, 'I don't know who the gory sheol you are, except that you're a gory lunatic, and what's more, I don't care a damn. But I'll soon show you where you are! You can call up at the store and get your cheque, and soon as you blessed well like; and then take a walk, and don't forget to take your lovely swag with you.'