So maybe my father was telling the sober truth about!

Three cheers for old Ireland, God save Old Ireland, Up the Republic. It all means the same.

Well the joke is saying nostrils instead of arsehole, which you might be thinking. But it's funnier that way - arsehole wouldn't be. He's talking to a lady after all, and in 1869 well brought up dogs knew how to mind their language I imagine.