"I was never young. My mother told me that I had cut my wisdom-teeth when I was born. I was wide awake, too, like your clever people, and have kept my eyes open ever since.
"You have seen a great deal of the world?"
"Yes, too much of it; but 'tis a tolerable world to live in after all."
"Were you ever in the United States?"
"Only crossed from the other side a few days ago. Did you not notice the arrival of Mr. P--- among the list of distinguished foreigners that honoured your great city with their presence?"
"And what struck you most when you got there?"
"Oh, the beauty and elegance of the women, of course."
"You flatter us."
"Fact, upon honour," with a quizzical application of his hand to his heart.
"What did you admire in them?"