were?
Alice made a short calculation, and said Seven years and six months.
Wrong! Humpty Dumpty exclaimed triumphantly. You never said a word
like it!
I though you meant How old _are_ you? Alice explained.
If I d meant that, I d have said it, said Humpty Dumpty.
Alice didn t want to begin another argument, so she said nothing.
Seven years and six months! Humpty Dumpty repeated thoughtfully. An
uncomfortable sort of age. Now if you d asked _my_ advice, I d have
said Leave off at seven but it s too late now.
I never ask advice about growing, Alice said indignantly.
Too proud? the other inquired.
Alice felt even more indignant at this suggestion. I mean, she said,
that one can t help growing older.
_One_ can t, perhaps, said Humpty Dumpty, but _two_ can. With proper
assistance, you might have left off at seven.
What a beautiful belt you ve got on! Alice suddenly remarked.
(They had had quite enough of the subject of age, she thought: and if
they really were to take turns in choosing subjects, it was her turn
now.) At least, she corrected herself on second thoughts, a
beautiful cravat, I should have said no, a belt, I mean I beg your
pardon! she added in dismay, for Humpty Dumpty looked thoroughly
offended, and she began to wish she hadn t chosen that subject. If I
only knew, she thought to herself, which was neck and which was
waist!
Evidently Humpty Dumpty was very angry, though he said nothing for a
minute or two. When he _did_ speak again, it was in a deep growl.
55