"_To wish is folly, to regret absurd._"
That I went out in my new hat and light summer clothes, and did not take
my umbrella the only day within the last fortnight when there was an
hour's rain.
That I had already accepted an invitation when one to a party that would
have been infinitely more pleasant all round subsequently arrived.
That I took that champagne last night, and some other things.
That I left off my winter "things" before summer had set in.
That I returned to my winter "things" just when summer weather did set
in.
That I went out to supper and supped heartily.
That I didn't have that tooth out when it first pained me.
That my dentist should take a four days' holiday just when I wanted him
badly.
That I put into five sweeps and drew blank.
That I lent a man half-a-sovereign.
That I didn't back the winner.
* * *
COMMERCIAL AND NAUTICAL.--Two City men, twin brothers and partners, in
character the very reverse of CHARLES DICKENS'S kind and generous
_Cheerybles_, are known as "The Twin Screws."
* * *
WHITSUNTIDE.--"Don't stop in! I'll take you out if you'll only come," as
the dentist said to the tooth.
* * * * *