As the fellow did not think proper to
refuse the request of such a formidable figure, he was
immediately introduced, and addressed himself to my uncle in
these words: 'Your humble servant, good sir, -- I'm not so
prepasterous, as your son calls it, but I know the rules of
shivility - I'm a poor knight of Ireland, my name is sir Ulic
Mackilligut, of the county of Galway; being your fellow-lodger,
I'm come to pay my respects, and to welcome you to the South
Parade, and to offer my best services to you, and your good lady,
and your pretty daughter; and even to the young gentleman your
son, though he thinks me a prepasterous fellow -- You must know I
am to have the honour to open a ball next door to-morrow with
lady Mac Manus; and being rusted in my dancing, I was refreshing
my memory with a little exercise; but if I had known there was a
sick person below, by Christ! I would have sooner danced a
hornpipe upon my own head, than walk the softest minuet over
yours.' -- My uncle, who was not a little startled at his first
appearance, received his compliment with great complacency,
insisted upon his being seated, thanked him for the honour of his
visit, and reprimanded me for my abrupt expostulation with a
gentleman of his rank and character.
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