"No, thanks; reading in a railway carriage always tries my poor eyes so;"
i.e., "I've better occupation for them just now."
"Pardon my drawing the blind; the glare in a railway carriage always makes my head ache;"
i.e., "Shows up my wrinkles and moustache-dye."
Theatrical.
"She is an intelligent and experienced artist;"
i.e., Much too old for the part.
Effusive Flattery.
"Thank you so much for your dear little Book of Poems. I haven't read them yet, but next time we meet I'll tell you what I think of them;"
i.e., "I hereby make a solemn resolution, if I can possibly help it, never to meet you again in this life."
Perfunctory Apology.
"I hope I didn't hurt you. I'm sure I beg your pardon;"
i.e., "Stupid fool! Serves you right for sticking out your feet, and tripping up everybody who happens to stumble on to them."