"I have been very much pressed elbow-pressed," he began, "to get up and say something. I scarcely see why I should be pitched on, unless it is because I have more brass than the rest of you. First" and up came one finger "Isn't this the jolliest supper we've ever had? Reason Number One: West's in a jolly good temper, vide the groaning table and the absence of masters.