living man with whom I would have linked arms at that time.
“Good?” cried he. “Nonsense, my dear sir! I’m only afraid you find it devilish rough. But, at all events, you’re coming to dine with me tonight.”
“Am I?” I asked, smiling.
“Rather!” said he. “My time here is short enough. I don’t lose sight of you again between this and midnight.”
“It’s most awfully good of you,” said I again.
“Wait till you see! You’ll find it rough enough at my place; all my retainers are out for the day at a local show.”
Relatives I had as few as misanthropist could desire; but from self-congratulation on the fact, on first landing, I soon came to keen regret. They at least would have sheltered me from spies and busybodies; they at least would have secured the peace and privacy of one who was no hero in fact or spirit,