[Gives a card.]
Col. Diamond—(reads). “Lady-a-um-compliments to the Officers of the Nonpareil Hussars.” Why, what's all this? The Officers of the Nonpareil Hussars! I'll not go.
All the Mess. Why not, Colonel? Why not?
Col. I'm not invited.
All the Mess. Not invited!
Col. Diamond. No, I'm not invited, and of course will not go. “Officers,” indeed! the card should run thus—“To Colonel Diamond, and the Officers of the &c.” Really it is a breach of etiquette that I cannot submit to.
Major Flowers. 'Pon my honour, Colonel, I do not think there can be any offence meant: pray let me entreat you to come.
Col. Diamond. No, Major, I feel—a—the—a—in short, it should have been to “the Colonel and the Officers.” Don't you think so?
Major. Perhaps it would have been more particular; but I do not think it is of so much consequence, as to make you forego the delightful society of Lady Fanny; for her ladyship will be there to a certainty.
[Colonel hums a tune.]