"I rather understood that you were arguing, &c., &c.;" i.e., "You are now flatly contradicting yourself."
DISCIPLINE!
(A Farcical Tragedy, in Two Scenes—not licensed for representation.)
SCENE I.—The Barrack Square. Present—No. 1 Company, awaiting inspection.
Captain (to Subaltern). Have you proved them?
Subaltern. Sorry, Sir, but the men say they know their places, and it is useless labour.
Capt. Very well—I daresay they are right. You know we have been told to be conciliatory. Open order! March! For inspection—port arms!
Sergeant (stepping forward, and saluting). Beg pardon, Sir, but the men are under the impression that you wish to examine their rifles?