The members pocket the satire with a hearty laugh.
Presently comes the turn of the second speaker. This one speaks in a scarcely audible voice.
"Raise your voice," cry the members.
"I am sorry you cannot hear. Come nearer."
The cries of "Louder!" continue.
"If I speak low," replies the orator, "it is in order to get down to your level."
This convulsed the assembly with laughter.
I was aghast.
Can it be possible, I thought, that they will stand that? The joke may be new and funny, but surely it is being carried beyond the bounds. If such things went on in France, one would see duels going on in all the retired spots of the neighbourhood next morning.
The health of a third guest is proposed in terms as grotesque as the preceding ones. This gentleman is an American, whose daughter is the wife of a member of the English aristocracy. By the manner in which he rises and begins to speak, it is easy to see that he is an old hand at this kind of tournament. He begins: