MR. PUNCH'S DICTIONARY OF PHRASES.
PRIVATE THEATRICALS.
"Tisn't a part that I feel, and I fear I shall make a failure;" i.e., "Easy as be blowed, but I'm thrown away upon it."
TRADE EMBELLISHMENTS.
"The Ching-Twangs Central China Tea Company's selected growth of Early Green Leaf Spring Pickings;" i.e., "A damaged cargo and last year's rotten sweepings, mingled with chipped broom, dried cabbage, and other equally suitable and inviting ingredients."
AT LUNCHEON.
"No more, indeed, really;" i.e., "Had nothing to eat—but more of that stuff? No, thank you."
ELECTIONEERING.
"The Leaders to whom the Nation owes its recent period of prosperity": i.e., "Gentlemen who have unavoidably remained in Office during the revival of Trade."
"Having every personal respect for my opponent;" i.e., "I now proceed to blacken his political character."
IN THE SMOKING-ROOM.
"You know I always hate long arguments;" i.e., "Don't deprive me of my pet diversion."
"No; I don't exactly see what you mean;" i.e., "You don't; but the admission on my part looks candid."
"My dear fellow, ask anyone who really knows anything;" i.e. "You appear to live among a half-educated set of local faddists."