Page:The life and letters of Sir John Henniker Heaton bt. (IA lifelettersofsi00port).pdf/158

 ways, was never able to distinguish one flower from another. As a general rule, he used the generic term "roses" for anything that was brightly coloured. The nursery-party were considerably enlivened one day by the receipt oi a picture postcard of some hand-painted flowers. "My dear little Lily, I send you this card to remind you of your pretty namesakes." The flowers were violets!

H. H. was a great raconteur, even in his own home circle, and he took as much trouble to make a dinner-table story amusing when his wife and children only were present as he did when entertaining a party of celebrities. His Sunday luncheon-parties in Eaton Square were always very joyous and interesting gatherings. He knew well how to draw the best out of every one, and his enthusiasm for his guests' attainments was always sincere. Their bons mots were sure to draw forth the flattering tribute of that hearty laugh, which was always one of his greatest charms.

How heartily H. H. detested all want of generosity in speech and feeling! The grudging praise, the belittling of achievements, the want of enthusiasm that froze all genial intercourse, would kindle the light of indignation in his eyes.

The condemnation of R. L. S. for such as

would never have fallen on H. H., who loved the simple pleasures of everyday life. As the years grew upon him, never once was he heard to regret the past as superior to the present. For him To-day was the age of miracles and, if he expressed any regret, it was that he would not live to see the coming glories of to-morrow.