OLD AGE AND THE PROFESSOR.
Mr. Holmes is as famous for his prose as for his poetry. The following sketches are characteristic of his happy and varied style.
LD AGE, this is Mr. Professor; Mr. Professor, this is Old Age.
Old Age.—Mr. Professor, I hope to see you well. I have known you for some time, though I think you did not know me. Shall we walk down the street together?
Professor (drawing back a little).—We can talk more quietly, perhaps, in my study. Will you tell me how it is you seem to be acquainted with everybody you are introduced to, though he evidently considers you an entire stranger?
Old Age.—I make it a rule never to force myself upon a person’s recognition until I have known him at least five years.
Professor.—Do you mean to say that you have known me so long as that?
Old Age.—I do. I left my card on you longer ago than that, but I am afraid you never read it; yet I see you have it with you.