“After being so ill yesterday,” said Mr. Fairly, “I think it will be rather too much for you.”
“Not at all!—and what's more, you must carry me.”
“I am very glad to hear it,” cried he, “if go you will.”
“Yes, that I will, certainly; and some of you must take me. I have no coach ordered,-and there is not one to spare: so, amongst you, you equerries, you must carry me. I have never been to Blenheim since I married.”
“Were you before?” said the general.
“Yes, sir, and you took me.”
“Did I?”
“Yes, sir, you had that honour; and I think you have never taken that trouble since.”
All this, though uttered in a voice as peremptory as the language, was spoken with very becoming smiles, and an air of saucy good humour.
The breakfast all this while had stood quite still: indeed there was nobody but myself that had not nearly done. Major Price handed me roll and butter and bread across the table, by way of hint, I believe; all which I declined: at last Mr. Fairly said,