Now, not even Joe could disagree with this; it was true, and was assented to by all; Joe silently acquiescing. After the Sergeant had warmed his hands and
rubbed them sufficiently, he took off his cap and placed it on a little shelf or rack; and then took out a meerschaum pipe, which he exhibited without appearing to do so to the whole company. Then he filled it from his pouch, and rang the bell; and when the buxom young waitress appeared, he said,—
“My dear, I think I’ll have a nice rump steak and some onions, if you please.”
“Yes, sir,” said the maid.
Now I observed that two or three matters were noteworthy at this point. First, Joe’s mouth so watered that he actually went to the fireplace and expectorated. Secondly, he was utterly amazed at the familiar manner in which the Sergeant was permitted to address this beautiful young person, who seemed to be quite a lady of quality. Thirdly, he was duly impressed and astounded with the luxurious appetite of this Sergeant of Hussars!
Then the young woman came back and said,—“Would you like to have it in the parlour, sir?”
“O no, my dear,” said the Sergeant; “I would rather have it here. I hate being alone.”
As he said this, he slightly glanced at Dick Devilmecare. Dick, flattering himself that the observation was addressed particularly to him, observed that he also hated being alone.
Then the Sergeant lighted his pipe; and I suppose there was not one in the company who did not think that tobacco particularly nice.
Next, the Sergeant rang again, and once more the pretty maid appeared.