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30, so I made a beginning with it. It was not schanepper, however, but quite equal in flavour to that coveted fish. I enjoyed the meal, and we discussed many matters, the sisters being highly interested when I was telling them about our society ladies and leaders of fashion, Estas remarking that she knew nothing of the fashions, and that in Atazatlan the dresses of the ladies had changed but little for a very long period, and that in dressing they studied health and comfort rather than outward display. However, everything I beheld in Neuroomia since my arrival appeared so superior to what I had been accustomed to see in other parts of the world, that I could not help feeling somewhat insignificant, and further, I thought it quite possible I might not be doing justice to my own country and people. The ladies having retired, I informed him that if he chose I would tell him about some of our clever men and great philanthropists, also that I would address him standing, as I could speak better in that position than sitting.

“I shall be very much delighted to hear you speak. Captain Periwinkle,” he said.

Having stood up and cleared my throat, I began, and, in what I considered to be a neat little three-and-a-half hours’ speech, told him about some of