that Ode is what is technically called a 'stinker.' But M'Turk had done him handsomely.
'Milesne Crassi, had—has the soldier of Crassus—vixit, lived—lurpis maritus, a disgraceful husband '
'You slurred the quantity of the word after turpis,' said King. 'Let's hear it.'
Beetle guessed again, and for a wonder hit the correct quantity. 'Er—a disgraceful husband—conjuge Barbara, with a barbarous spouse.'
'Why do you select that disgustful equivalent out of all the dictionary?' King snapped. 'Isn't "wife" good enough for you?'
'Yes, sir. But what do I do about this bracket, sir? Shall I take it now?'
'Confine yourself at present to the soldier of Crassus.'
'Yes, sir. Et, and—consenuit, has he grown old—in armis, in the—er—arms—hostium socerorum, of his father-in-law's enemies.'
'Who? How? Which?'
'Arms of his enemies' fathers-in-law, sir.'
'Tha-anks. By the way, what meaning might you attach to in armis?'
'Oh, weapons—weapons of war, sir.' There was a virginal note in Beetle's voice as though he had been falsely accused of uttering indecencies. 'Shall I take the bracket now, sir?'
'Since it seems to be troubling you.'
'Pro Curia, O for the Senate House—inversique mores, and manners upset—upside down.'
'Ve-ry like your translation. Meantime, the soldier of Crassus?'
