etc.; of a piece with the story of
the canoness, which has been recorded before. All the tales were
true. A clever, ugly man every now and then is successful with the
ladies; but a handsome fool is irresistible. Mrs. Cat listened and
listened. Good heavens! she had heard all these tales before, and
recollected the place and the time--how she was hemming a
handkerchief for Max; who came round and kissed her, vowing that the
physician's wife was nothing compared to her--how he was tired, and
lying on the sofa, just come home from shooting. How handsome he
looked! Cat thought he was only the handsomer now; and looked more
grave and thoughtful, the dear fellow!
The garden was filled with a vast deal of company of all kinds, and
parties were passing every moment before the arbour where our trio
sat. About half-an-hour after his Excellency had quitted his own
box and party, the Rev. Mr. O'Flaherty came discreetly round, to
examine the proceedings of his diplomatical chef. The lady in the
mask was listening with all her might; Mr. Billings was drawing
figures on the table with punch; and the Count talking incessantly.
The Father Confessor listened for a moment; and then, with something
resembling an oath, walked away to the entry of the gardens, where
his Excellency's gilt coach, with three footmen, was waiting to
carry him back to London.
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