To be brief, I had scarcely placed my glass
into the orifice before my imperfect vision, when Harriette appeared
at the adjoining window, and instantly recognizing an old acquaintance,
invited me up stairs. 'Times are a little changed,' said she, 'Mr.
Crony, since last we met:' 'True, madam,' I responded; and then to cheer
the belle a little, I added, 'but not persons, I perceive, for you are
looking as young and as attractive as ever.' The compliment did not seem
to please the Colonel in the wig, who turned round, looked frowningly,
and then twirled the dexter side of his lip wing into a perfect circle.
It is not possible that this thing can affect jealousy of such a woman
as Harriette? thought I: so proceeded with our conversation: and he
shortly resumed his polite amusement of spitting upon the children who
were ~51~~playing marbles beneath his window. 'I am really married to
that monster, yonder,' said she, in an under tone: 'How do you like my
choice?' 'I am not old enough in the gentleman's acquaintance to hazard
an opinion on his merits,' quoth I; 'but you are a woman of experience,
belle Harriette, and should be a good judge of male bipeds, although I
cannot say much in favour of your military taste.' 'And you was always a
_quiz_, Crony,' retorted belle Harriette: 'remember my sister Mary, who
is now Mrs.
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