CHAPTER XXI.
Mr. Rogers and Mr. Luttrell—Society of Refined Englishmen—Mercurial
Temperament of the French—Opposite Characters—M. Erard's Collection
of Pictures—Antique Bijouterie—Lord Pembroke—The Duke of
Hamilton—Dr. Parr—Reproof of the Duc de Blacas—Monsieur Mignet—His
great Knowledge—A Clever Man—Influence of Conscience—Abilities of
Lord Palmerston—Lord Castlereagh—His Uncle, the late Marquess of
Londonderry—Dangers of Fashion—Mr. Cutlar Fergusson—The Baron and
Baroness de Ruysch—A Mind at Ease—Dreary Weather—Sad State of the
Streets—Fogs—Fascination of Madame Grassini—Sledge Party—Sledge of
the Duc de Guiche—That of Comte d'Orsay—Picturesque Night
Scene—Revival of an Old Fashion—The Prince Polignac—His Amiable
Manners—His Difficult Position, 242.