It does not become me, however, to argue with my superior in military rank; and again, the tone of your last communication makes it impossible for me to decline without bringing the spirit of my Corps under suspicion.

I cannot do them this injustice.
His Majesty, I dare to say, has no braver, no more gallant subjects, than the inhabitants of East and West Looe; and if, or when, you choose to invade us you may count on a determined resistance and, at its conclusion, on a hearty invitation to supper, or breakfast, as the length of the operations may dictate .-- I am, yours truly," "Aen.

Pond (_Capt_.

E.and W.L.V.A.)." "P.S .-- If you will accept a suggestion, it is that on the night of the 30th of April, or in the early hours of May morning, large numbers of our inhabitants fare out to the neighbouring farmhouses to eat cream and observe other unwholesome but primitive and interesting ceremonies before day-break.
A similar custom, I hear, prevails at Troy.

Now it occurs to me that if we agreed upon that date for our surprise attack, we should, so to speak, be killing two birds with one stone, and at a season when the night air in some degree loses its insalubrity.
"P.P.S .-- You will, of course, take care--it is the essence of our agreement--that all ammunition shall be strictly blank.
And pray bring your full band.