Page:The life and opinions of Tristram Shandy (Volume 2).pdf/15

 to make them do it, as that of leaving them out of the party, or, what is full as offensive, of bestowing your attention upon the rest of your guests in so particular a way, as if there was no such thing as a critick (by occupation) at table.

I guard against both; for, in the first place, I have left half a dozen places purposely open for them;—and in the next place, I pay them all court,——Gentlemen, I kiss your hands,—I protest no company could give me half the pleasure,—by my soul I am glad to see you,—I beg only you will make no strangers of yourselves, but sit down without any ceremony, and fall on heartily.