An old soldier." "I don't think we should like a soldier in the house, Doctor," said Miss Thornton.

"They use such very odd language sometimes, you know." "This man never swears," said the Doctor.
"But soldiers are apt to drink sometimes, you know, Doctor," said Miss Thornton.

"And that wouldn't do in this case." "I've known the man all my life," said the Doctor, with animation.

"And I never saw him drunk." "He seems faultless, Doctor," said the Major, smiling.
"No, he is not faultless, but he has his qualifications for the office, nevertheless.

He can read passably, and might amuse our poor old friend in that way.