they understand no more of IRONY than this -

The comparison was standing close by with his panniers - but something seal'd up my lips - I could not pronounce the name -

Sir, said I, collecting myself - it is not my intention to take post -

- But you may - said he, persisting in his first reply - you may take post if you chuse -

- And I may take salt to my pickled herring, said I, if I chuse -

- But I do not chuse -

- But you must pay for it, whether you do or no -

Aye! for the salt; said I (I know) -