It certainly looked as if he had hung out a little too long.
'But it made us what we were, Sir,' said the Major, settling his shirt frill.

'We were iron, Sir, and it forged us.

Are you remaining here, Mr Dombey ?' 'I generally come down once a week, Major,' returned that gentleman.

'I stay at the Bedford.' 'I shall have the honour of calling at the Bedford, Sir, if you'll permit me,' said the Major.

'Joey B., Sir, is not in general a calling man, but Mr Dombey's is not a common name.