Sterne, in his "Sentimental Journey," gives a pleasing description of snuff-taking with the poor monk. He writes:
"The good old monk was within six paces of us, as the idea of him crossed my mind; and was advancing towards us a little out of the line, as if uncertain whether he should break in upon us or no. He stoop'd, however, as soon as he came up to us with a world of frankness; and having a horn snuff-box in his hand, he presented it open to me.
"'You shall taste mine,' said I, pulling out my box (which was a small tortoise one), and putting it into his hand.
"''Tis most excellent,' said the monk.
"'Then do me the favor,' I replied 'to accept of the box and all, and when you take a pinch out of it, sometimes recollect it was the peace-offering of a man who once used you unkindly, but not from his heart.'
"The poor monk blushed as red as scarlet, 'Mon Dieu?' said he, pressing his hands together, 'you never used me unkindly.'
"'I should think,' said the lady, 'he is not likely.'
I blushed in my turn; but from what motives, I leave to the few who feel to analyze. 'Excuse me, madam,' replied I, 'I treated him most unkindly, and from no provocations.'
"''Tis impossible,' said the lady.
"'My God!' cried the monk, with a warmth of asseveration which seemed not to belong to him, 'the fault was in me, and in the indiscretion of my zeal.'