What 's the damage , John ? '' `` I 'll damage you , '' said John , `` if you inquire . Dot ! Very near ? '' `` Well ! it 's like you to say so , '' observed the little man . `` It 's your kind way . Let me see . I think that 's all . '' `` I think not , '' said the Carrier . `` Try again . '' `` Something for our Governor , eh ? '' said Caleb after pondering a little while . `` To be sure . That 's what I came for ; but my head 's so running on them Arks and things ! He has n't been here , has he ? '' `` Not he , '' returned the Carrier . `` He 's too busy , courting . '' `` He 's coming round , though , '' said Caleb ; `` for he told me to keep on the near side of the road going home , and it was ten to one he 'd take me up . I had better go , by-the-bye .
-- You could n't have the goodness to let me pinch Boxer 's tail , mum , XXXXX half a moment , could you ? ''
Caleb Governor To after by-the-bye for if like near on