“Well, I'm unable to give him any,” said Walter.
X. SUPPER.
|After a brief conference with Pledger Dapp, Mr. Tankard returned with Higgins to the company.
Presently, the gladsome announcement was made by the fine footman that supper was ready.
Mr. Tankard showed his guests the way by taking out Mrs. Tripp; Mrs. Sicklemore followed with Hartley, whose arm she took with some reluctance; then came Larkins with Mrs. Hartley; then Harry Netterville with Rose, by far the best-looking couple in the assemblage; then came the gallant Tom, with a young lady on either arm, singing to himself, like Captain Macheath, “How happy could I be with either;” and, lastly, came the hostess and Mr. Higgins.
Walter stood at the supper-room door as the company entered, and Flora and Clotilde made some complimentary remarks upon his appearance. Tom, however, would not allow them to stop for a moment, but took them to their seats, and placed himself between them.
The table was not very large, but it was well covered with dishes; for Pledger Dapp had been as good as his word, and had given a capital supper.
The chickens, hams, and tongues being ready carved, could be helped without delay; and the lobster salad was pronounced faultless by Mr. Higgins, who professed to be a judge.