"_The Mess rather prides itself upon its cellar;_" _i.e._, The host is
a little doubtful about what the Wine Committee have in hand for the
benefit of the guest he has asked to dinner.
"_The Regiment at the Inspection, although a trifle rusty, never did
better;_" _i.e._, The Senior Major clubbed the Battalion, and the
Commanding Officer was told by the General, with an unnecessary strong
expression, to "Take 'em home, Sir!"