Page:Despotism and democracy; a study in Washington society and politics (IA despotismdemocra00seawiala).pdf/108

 *er idle and irresponsible, becomes a hero when I am ill and a gentleman when I am angry."

"Another cup of tea, please."

"Already? You will become a tea-drinker like Doctor Johnson. However, my tea is so good that you are excused."

The conversation went on fitfully, but to Thorndyke delightfully. Like all women who truly know the world, Constance had a charming and real simplicity about her. She made no effort to entertain him. She talked to him and he replied or was silent according to his mood. Every moment increased Thorndyke's sense of exquisite comfort and quiet enjoyment. He had reached the inevitable stage of life when amusements are no longer warranted to amuse; when only a few things remained, such as certain books and certain conversations, which were a surety of pleasure. Nor had it been much in his way to enjoy those simple pleasures which are found only in quiet and seclusion. It was as much a feeling of gratitude as of enjoyment which made him say to Constance:

"I did not think there remained for me such an