CHAPTER V
THE SEVEN SISTERS
(Greek passage.)
Euripides: Alcestis.
Rejoice thy spirit: drink: the passing day
Esteem thine own, and all beyond as Fortune's.
The doctor was not long without remembering his promise to revisit his new acquaintance, and, purposing to remain till the next morning, he set out later in the day. The weather was intensely hot: he walked slowly, and paused more frequently than usual, to rest under the shade of trees. He was shown into the drawing-room, where he was shortly joined by Mr. Falconer, and very cordially welcomed.
The two friends dined together in the lower room of the tower. The dinner and wine were greatly to the doctor's mind. In due time they adjourned to the drawing-room, and the two young handmaids who had waited at dinner attended with coffee and tea. The doctor then said—'You are well provided with musical instruments. Do you play?'
Mr. Falconer. No. I have profited by the observation of Doctor Johnson: 'Sir, once on a time I took to fiddling; but I found that to fiddle well I must fiddle all my life, and I thought I could do something better.'
The Rev. Dr. Opimian. Then, I presume, these are pieces of ornamental furniture, for the use of occasional visitors?
Mr. Falconer. Not exactly. My maids play on them, and sing to them.
The Rev. Dr. Opimian. Your maids!
Mr. Falconer. Even so. They have been thoroughly well educated, and are all accomplished musicians.