Punch or the London Charivari, Vol. 98 June 7, 1890

Visitors ascending staircase, full of enthusiasm and energetic determination not to miss a single Picture, encounter people descending in various stages of mental and physical exhaustion. At the turnstiles two Friends meet unexpectedly; both being shy men, who, with timely notice, would have preferred to avoid one another, their greetings are marked by an unnatural effusion, and followed by embarrassed silence.
First Shy Man (to break the spell). Odd, our running up against one another like this, eh?
Second Shy Man. Oh, very odd. ( Looks about him irresolutely, and wonders if it would be decent to pass on. Decides it will hardly do. ) Great place for meeting, the Academy, though.
First S. M. Yes; sure to come across somebody , sooner or later.
Second S. M. (seeing that his friend lingers). This your first visit here?
First S. M. Yes. Couldn't very well get away before , you know.
Second S. M. It's my first visit, too. ( Sees no escape, and resigns himself. ) Er—we may as well go round together, eh?
Second S. M. (who had been intending to follow that plan himself). Oh, do you? Now, for my part, I don't attempt to see anything thoroughly the first time. Just scamper through, glance at the things one oughtn't to miss, get a general impression, and come away. Then , if I don't happen to come again, I've always done it, you see. But ( considerately ), look here. Don't let me drag you about, if you'd rather not!
First S. M. Oh, but I shouldn't like to feel I was any tie on you. Don't you mind about me. I shall potter about in here—for hours, I daresay.
Second S. M. Ah, well ( with vague consolation ), I shall always know where to find you, I suppose.
First S. M. ( brightening visibly ). Oh dear, yes; I shan't be far away.