(_A Sentimental Fragment from Henley_)
And so they sat in the boat and looked into one another's eyes, and
found much to read in them. They ignored the presence of the houseboats,
and scarcely remembered that there were such things as launches
propelled by steam or electricity. And they turned deaf ears to the
niggers, and did not want their fortunes told by dirty females of a
gipsy type.
"This is very pleasant," said Edwin.
"Isn't it?" replied Angelina; "and it's such a good place for seeing all
the events."
"Admirable!" and they talked of other things; and the time sped on, and
the dark shadows grew, and still they talked, and talked, and talked.
At length the lanterns on the river began to glow, and Henley put on its
best appearance, and broke out violently into fireworks. It was then
Mrs. Grundy spied them out. She had been on the look out for scandal all
day long, but could find none. This seemed a pleasant and promising
case.
"So you are here!" she exclaimed. "Why, we thought you must have gone
long ago! And what do you say of the meeting?"
"A most perfect success," said he.
"And the company?"
"Could not be more charming," was her reply.
"And what did you think of the racing?" Then they looked at one another
and smiled. They spoke together, and observed:--
"Oh, we did not think of the racing!"
And Mrs. Grundy was not altogether satisfied.
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[Illustration: OVERHEARD ON AN ATLANTIC LINER
_She_ (_on her first trip to Europe_). "I guess you like London?"
_He._ "Why, yes. I guess I know most people in London. I was over there
last fall!"]
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[Illustration: "VIDE UT SUPRA"
"The sad sea waves"]
* * * * *