The Wits and Beaux of Society - Volume 2 by Philip Wharton;Grace Wharton
page 225 of 304 (74%)
page 225 of 304 (74%)
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doorway; the marshal, predecessor of the modern omniscient Brown,
advanced respectfully behind the proctor into the room, and passing a penetrating glance from one youth to the other, all of whom--except Theodore again--he knew by sight--for that is the pride and pleasure of a marshal--mentally registered their names in secret hopes of getting half-a-crown a-piece to forget them again. No mortal is more respectful in his manner of accosting you than an Oxford proctor, for he may make a mistake, and a mistake may make him very miserable. When, for instance, a highly respectable lady was the other day lodged, in spite of protestations, in the 'Procuratorial Rooms,' and there locked up on suspicion of being somebody very different, the over-zealous proctor who had ordered her incarceration was sued for damages for £300, and had to pay them too! Therefore the gentleman in question most graciously and suavely inquired of Mr. Theodore Hook-- 'I beg your pardon, sir, but are you a member of this university?'--the usual form. 'No, sir, I am not. Are you?' The suavity at once changed to grave dignity. The proctor lifted up the hem of his garment, which being of broad velvet, with the selvage on it, was one of the insignia of his office, and sternly said,--'You see this, sir.' 'Ah!' said Hook, cool as ever, and quietly feeling the material, which he examined with apparent interest, 'I see; Manchester velvet: and may I take the liberty, sir, of inquiring how much you have paid per yard for |
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