SIR ROBERT PEEL AND THE QUEEN.
Upon the first interview of the Queen with Sir Robert Peel, her Majesty was determined to answer only in monosyllables to all he said; and, in fact, to make her replies an echo, and nothing more, to whatever he said to her. The following dialogue, which we have thrown into verse for the purpose of smoothing it—the tone of it, as spoken, having been on one side, at least, rather rough—ensued between the illustrious persons alluded to.
HE.—Before we into minor details go,
Do I possess your confidence or no?
SHE.—No.
HE.—You shall not vex me, though your treatment’s rough;
No, madam, I am made of sterner stuff.
SHE.—Stuff.
HE.—Really, if thus your minister you flout,
A single syllable he can’t get out.