The one period of real importance at the English Embassy was, no doubt,
the daily dinner-hour.
Florence found herself seated between Mr. Anderson, who had taken her
in, and M. Grascour, who had performed the same ceremony for her
ladyship. "I am sure you will like this little capital very much," said
M. Grascour. "It is as much nicer than Paris as it is smaller and less
pretentious." Florence could only assent. "You will soon be able to
learn something of us; but in Paris you must be to the manner born, or
half a lifetime will not suffice."
"We'll put you up to the time of day," said Mr. Anderson, who did not
choose, as he said afterward, that this tidbit should be taken out of
his mouth.
"I dare say that all that I shall want will come naturally without any
putting up."
"You won't find it amiss to know a little of what's what. You have not
got a riding-horse here?"
"Oh no," said Florence.
"I was going on to say that I can manage to secure one for you.
Billibong has got an excellent horse that carried the Princess of Styria
last year." Mr. Anderson was supposed to be peculiarly up to everything
concerning horses.
"But I have not got a habit. That is a much more serious affair."
"Well, yes.
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