Again he spirted with laughter. Then he drew himself up in his chair a little; and became more grave.
"This is all very well," he said. "But I think I must get in my reprimand, for all that. You will not be sent to the guard-room, or the Green Cloth—(or whatever it is that would meet your case)—this time, Mr. Mallock; I will deal with you myself. But it is a very serious business, and your distinctions would not serve you in law. A sundial is not so important as a Christian lady; and a bunch of raisins is not, legally, a blow in the face. Still less are all the sundials and Spaniards in the world, equal to one of Her Majesty's Maids of Honour. You understand that?"
I bowed again; reminding myself that I was not done with him, even yet.
"Yes, Sir."
"Consider yourself reprimanded severely, Mr. Mallock."
I bowed; but I stood still.
"You have my leave—Oh! by the way, Mr. Mallock; there are just ten words I must have with you on the French affairs."
He motioned to a seat.
"I may kiss the hand that has beaten me?" said I.
He laughed again. He was a very merry prince when he was in the mood.