‘Not at all! you can’t get drunk in a better cause. I’d get drunk myself if it was not for the ball. Here, Champagne! another glass for the philosopher! I keep sober for Mary.’...
He then said it was necessary to drink the Queen’s health.
The gentlemen here made no demur, though Mr. De Luc arched his eyebrows in expressive fear of consequences.
‘A bumper,’ cried the Duke, ‘to the Queen’s gentleman-usher.’
They all stood up and drank the Queen’s health.
‘Here are three of us,’ cried the Duke, ‘all belonging to the Queen: the Queen’s philosopher, the Queen’s gentleman-usher, and the Queen’s son; but, thank Heaven, I’m nearest!’
‘Sir,’ cried Mr. Stanhope, a little affronted, ‘I am not now the Queen’s gentleman-usher; I am the Queen’s equerry, sir.’
‘A glass more of Champagne here! What are you all so slow for? Where are all my rascals gone? They’ve put me in one passion already this morning. Come, a glass of Champagne for the Queen’s gentleman-usher!’ laughing heartily.
‘No, sir,’ repeated Mr. Stanhope, ‘I am equerry now!’