The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman

As Mrs. Bridget opened the door before the corporal had well given the rap, the interval betwixt that and my uncle Toby's introduction into the parlour, was so short, that Mrs. Wadman had but just time to get from behind the curtain -- -- -lay a Bible upon the table, and advance a step or two towards the door to receive him.

My uncle Toby saluted Mrs. Wadman, after the manner in which women were saluted by men in the year of our Lord God one thousand seven hundred and thirteen -- -- -then facing about, he march'd up abreast with her to the sofa, and in three plain words -- -- -though not before he was sat down -- -- -nor after he was sat down -- -- -but as he was sitting down, told her, "he was in love" -- -- -so that my uncle Toby strained himself more in the declaration than he needed.