No man ever had a more favorable hour for reflection and introspection.

I employed it to the full.

Then I rose, and crossing the stable, pulled the long ears of my friend who was eating the hay.
"I suppose you also were a young ass once," said I with a rueful smile.
Well, I couldn't leave the Cardinal's Necklace in the corner of the convent stable.

I picked up the box.

Neddy thrust out his nose at it.