SURLINESS is incivility in speech.

The surly man when he is asked, 'Do you know where so-and-so is?' will say, 'Don't worry me ' or if addressed, will refuse to answer. If he wishes to sell something he never names to the intending purchaser the price he will take, but always asks him what he is to get. Those who send him presents for the festival as a mark of esteem are informed that he is sure it is not a present. He has no pardon for anyone who has accidentally bespattered him with mud or jostled him or trodden on his foot. When a friend asks him for a subscription1 he will declare he cannot give anything, then a little after he comes with it growling, 'More money lost.' If he trips on the road he is sure to curse the stone. He will not submit to be kept waiting for anyone, and will refuse to sing or recite or dance. Possibly too he does not pray to the Gods.

1 i. e., a subscription for friend in need which was usually regarded as a loan.

 

SURLINESS