I never tasted better Madeira of its age in my life--it almost
equals my lord's best, which is ten years older; and I do not think
that Shortridge made more than two fair profits out of us. I met him,
by the by, to-day, and would have had him to dine with us; but, for
certain reasons, I think his best place, just now, is at home,
watching over his domestic relations."
"What is there in them," exclaimed one of the party, "that needs such
close watching?"
The colonel seemed for a moment to debate in his own mind the
propriety of making a revelation, then said: "We are all friends here;
and, while it is desirable in our profession, and in all others, to
know thoroughly the men we live among, still there are many little
things that are not to be published on parade, like a general order."
His discreet auditors assenting to this truth, he then gave a full
detail of Adjutant Meynell's morning conversation with his colonel,
painting broadly and brightly L'Isle's surprise and delight on hearing
that Mrs. Shortridge was in Elvas. "What do you think of that, Fox?"
Captain Fox thought L'Isle very imprudent. "But he is young yet, and
lacks secrecy and self-command.
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