"Those, sir, are modeled on the State-House in Paris, and are intended
to shelter the youthful damsels, here assembled, as the wings of a hen
do the chickens of her bosom--hem! Cause and effect, sir--philosophy
and poetry unite to render this edifice the paragon and brag of
architectural magnificence."

"_Anan_?" said Verty.

"I see you speak French."

"That ain't French."

"No? Then it's something else. Going up there?"

"Yes," said Verty.

"Fine turkey that. For the old lady?"

"Who's the old lady?"

"Old Mrs. Scowley--a model of the divine sex, sir."

"No, it ain't for her," said Verty, smiling.

"For Miss Sallianna?"

"Who's that?"

"I see, sir, that you are not acquainted with this still more divine