AT THE ROYAL ACADEMY.
IN THE VESTIBULE.
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.
[Laughs nervously, and wishes the other would go.
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.