That the men from over sea are not often so well
gifted as some--we will say, for the sake of a convenient illustration, as
thyself, Ensign--is placed beyond the reach of debate, since sight
teacheth us that numberless exceptions may be found to all the more
general and distinctive laws of nature. I think we are not likely to carry
our disagreement further?"
"It is impossible to make head against one so ready with his knowledge,"
returned the other, well content to exist in his own person a striking
exception to the inferiority of his fellows; "though it appeareth to me
that my brother Ring might be chosen, as another instance of a reasonable
stature, a fact that thou mayst see, Doctor, by regarding him as he
approaches through yon meadow. He hath been, like myself, on the scout
among the mountains."
"There are many instances of physical merit among thy connexions, Master
Dudley," returned the complaisant physician; "though it would seem that
thy brother hath not found his companion among them. He is attended by an
ill-grown, and, it may be added, an ill-favored comrade, that I know not.
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