Taking a box at a theatre for the express purpose of hearing the wonderful new vocalist, and finding, when you get there, only "indisposition" and a stale comedy.
Being "not at home" to an old friend, and coming downstairs, in a forgetful fit, before he has had time to leave the house.
Bowing, in your usual bland and affable manner, to a gentleman in the street, whom you recollect, as soon as he has passed, that you ought to have kicked.
"Popping the question" in a pair of tight boots; the lady seeming in no hurry, and to enjoy your agony.
Going out to be godfather, and remembering, at the proper crisis for presentation, that you must have left "the" silver cup in some omnibus.
To be interrupted while writing a Bill-et-doux, by the recollection of a bill over due.
Being asked to carve, if you are a musician or literary man.
Being compelled, in a party, to sit down to whist; and hearing your favourite part in an Italian quartet, which you had studied for a week before, sung by a murderous wretch whom you long to strangle.
Writing an appointment to a lady, and a disappointment to a tailor, and cross-directing them.
Paying your rent punctually, on quarter-day, to your landlord, and being distrained on the next day by his landlord.