"I have known but three women in my life, and one of them my mother," he answered.
"You sound rather dismal, methinks. But you must have remarked my lady in the Mall, sir?"
"I seldom go to London."
"Now, sir, you sound infinite dismal and plaguily dull!"
"Dull?" repeated the Major thoughtfully, "aye perhaps I am, and 'tis but natural—ancient men often are, I believe."
"And your peruke is all askew!"
"Alack, it generally is!" sighed the Major.
"And you wear a vile old coat!"
"Truly I fear it hath seen its best days!" sighed the Major, glancing down wistfully at the war-worn garment in question.
"O, man," she cried, shaking her head at him, "for love of Heaven don't be so pestilent humble—I despise humility in horse or man!"