I must apologize for these damned entrances,' said Francis Crawford of Lymond. 'I feel Tom here never knows if he should send for a bishop or start a round of applause.
Francis Crawford of Lymond is expressing his frustration about the frequent and often dramatic entrances that take place. He feels that these entrances create confusion, making it unclear whether to seek religious help or to celebrate enthusiastically. This suggests that the entrances are theatrical or overly prominent, causing a sense of disorder or distraction.
He humorously comments on the unpredictability of Tom’s reactions to these entrances, implying that their grandiosity can lead to a mixed or exaggerated response. Crawford’s remark highlights his annoyance with the unnecessary fuss and the chaotic atmosphere that these entrances bring to the situation.
