'
'That is very handsomely said,' answered the Baron; 'for undoubtedly,
if a man be EBRIUS, or intoxicated--an incident which, on solemn and
festive occasions, may and will take place in the life of a man of
honour; and if the same gentleman, being fresh and sober, recants the
contumelies which he hath spoken in his liquor, it must be held VINUM
LOCUTUM EST; the words cease to be his own. Yet would I not find this
exculpation relevant in the case of one who was EBRIOSUS, or an habitual
drunkard; because, if such a person choose to pass the greater part
of his time in the predicament of intoxication, he hath no title to be
exeemed from the obligations of the code of politeness, but should learn
to deport himself peaceably and courteously when under the influence of
the vinous stimulus.--And now let us proceed to breakfast, and think no
more of this daft business.'
I must confess, whatever inference may be drawn from the circumstance,
that Edward, after so satisfactory an explanation, did much greater
honour to the delicacies of Miss Bradwardine's breakfast-table than
his commencement had promised. Balmawhapple, on the contrary, seemed
embarrassed and dejected; and Waverley now, for the first time, observed
that his arm was in a sling, which seemed to account for the awkward and
embarrassed manner with which he had presented his hand.
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