“I think I can sum up Lady Cowper’s leading attributes in three words—wit, wisdom, and goodness. In the relationship of daughter, wife, and mother, she left nothing to be desired; as a hostess she was pre-eminently agreeable, being a most delightful companion; she had lived with all that was politically and socially distinguished in her day, and had read all that was worth reading in modern literature. She derived keen enjoyment from the ‘give and take’ of discussion; her opinions were decided, and their expression fresh and spontaneous; into whatever well it was lowered the bucket invariably came up full.” In her later days, even under the pressure of failing health, her conversational powers never flagged; she was most brilliant in the freshness of morning, and shone conspicuously at the breakfast table, thereby rendering that repast far more animated than is usually the case. Her sallies, though never ill-natured, were often unexpected and startling, which added a zest to her conversation.

For two or three years running we had theatrical performances, our dramatis personæ including Mr Henry Greville,[[110]] Mr and Mrs Sartoris,[[111]] Lady Alice Egerton,[[112]] Mrs Leslie,[[113]] Lord Hamilton[[114]] and others.

[110]. Henry Greville, son of Mr Charles and Lady Charlotte Greville.

[111]. Adelaide Kemble and her husband.

[112]. Now Alice, Countess of Strafford, widow of the third Earl of Strafford.

[113]. Now Lady Constance Leslie, wife of Sir John Leslie, and sister of the fourth Earl of Portarlington.

[114]. Present Duke of Abercorn.

INDEX