The first time I myself set eyes
on the countess (nee Mary Sewell) was just after the late earl's
death. I thought she looked a countess, every inch of her, but
then I had not heard the story. I mistook the dowager for the
housekeeper."
BLASE BILLY
It was towards the end of August. He and I appeared to be the only
two men left to the Club. He was sitting by an open window, the
Times lying on the floor beside him. I drew my chair a little
closer and remarked:- "Good morning."
He suppressed a yawn, and replied "Mornin'"--dropping the "g." The
custom was just coming into fashion; he was always correct.
"Going to be a very hot day, I am afraid," I continued.
"'Fraid so," was the response, after which he turned his head away
and gently closed his eyes.
I opined that conversation was not to his wish, but this only made
me more determined to talk, and to talk to him above all others in
London. The desire took hold of me to irritate him--to break down
the imperturbable calm within which he moved and had his being; and
I gathered myself together, and settled down to the task.
"Interesting paper the Times," I observed.
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