ver. The fact
was, that, although the colonel had expressed to Captain Carrington his
regret and distress at the circumstance, yet, as an old Adonis, he was
rather proud of this instance of juvenile indiscretion. When therefore
he entered the room, and perceived, instead of the lady. Mr Sullivan
raised up to his utmost height, and looking any thing but good humoured,
he naturally started back, and stammered out something which was
unintelligible. His behaviour did not allay the suspicions of Mr
Sullivan, who requested, in a haughty tone, to be informed of the reason
why he had been honoured with a visit. The colonel became more
confused, and totally losing his presence of mind, replied:--

"I called, sir,--on Mrs Sullivan,--to offer an apology for my conduct
last night; but as I perceive that she is not visible, I will take a
more favourable opportunity."

"Any apology you may have to offer to my wife, sir," replied Mr
Sullivan, "may be confided to me. May I inquire the circumstances which
have occurred to render an apology necessary?" and Mr Sullivan walked
to the door and closed it.

"Why, really, Mr Sullivan, you must be aware that circumstances may
occur," replied the colonel, more confused: "the fact is, that I
consider it my duty, as a gentleman and a man of honour, to express my
regrets to your fair lady."

"My fair lady! for what, sir, may I ask?"

"Why, sir," stammered the colonel, "to state the truth, for, as a
gentleman, and a man of honour, I ought not to be ashamed to acknowledge
my error--for--the very improper behaviour which I was guilty of last
night."

"Improper behaviour, sir!--damnation! with my wife?" roared Mr
Sullivan, in his rage. "What behaviour, sir? and when, sir?"

"Really, sir, I was too much affected with the wine to know any thing
which passed. I did hope to have addressed the lady in person on the
subject, and I came here with that intention."

"I dare say you did, sir?"

"But," continued the colonel, "as it appears I am not to have that
honour, I consider that I have done my duty in requesting that you will
convey my sentiments of regret for what has passed;--and, now, sir, I
wish you a good morning."

"Good morning," retorted the husband, with a sneer; "and observe, sir, I
will not trouble you to call again, William, show this gentleman outside
the door."

The colonel, who was descending the stairs, turned round to Mr Sullivan
at the latter part of his speech, and