Without a book before him, the Incumbent of Lady Whittlesea's Chapel was no prophet, and the truth is he made poor work of his oration.
At the end of it, he, Sir Brian, Colonel Dobbin, and one of the Indian gentlemen quitted the room, in spite of the loud outcries of our generous host, who insisted that the party should not break up.

"Close up, gentlemen," called out honest Newcome, "we are not going to part just yet.

Let me fill your glass, General.

You used to have no objection to a glass of wine." And he poured out a bumper for his friend, which the old campaigner sucked in with fitting gusto.

"Who will give us a song?
Binnie, give us the 'Laird of Cockpen.' It's capital, my dear General.