On the Permanent Way.

“You're a signal failure,” said the churchman to his prodigal son. “You ought to have occupied a good station in life, considering the way I've endeavoured to train you. Instead, you are driving to perdition along the lines you are going. Once again let me warn you of the dangers at all points. Let me express—”

“Yes, yes, dad,” interrupted the impatient and impenitent one, “please stop it. Pull the ex-communication cord!” (From The Weekly Telegraph).