Alice did n'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 ca n't help growing older . ' ` ONE ca n'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 . -LRB- 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 . -RRB- ` 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 had n'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 .
` It is a -- MOST -- PROVOKING -- thing , ' he said at last , ` when a person does n't know a cravat from a XXXXX ! ' '
advice argument assistance belt dismay growl neck nothing subject suggestion