The Bed-Book of Happiness by Harold Begbie
page 20 of 431 (04%)
page 20 of 431 (04%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
[Sidenote: _Carlyle_]
We have heard that he was a man universally loved, as well as honoured ... a friendly, true, and high-minded man; copious in speech, which was full of grave, genuine humour; contented with simple people and simple pleasures; and himself of the simplest habits and wishes. BROKEN STUDIES [Sidenote: _Richter_] I deny myself my evening meal in my eagerness to work; but the interruptions by my children I cannot deny myself. THE GREAT CONDÉ [Sidenote: _Percy Anecdotes_] The Great Condé passing through the city of Sens, which belonged to Burgundy, and of which he was the governor, took great pleasure in disconcerting the different companies who came to compliment him. The Abbé Boileau, brother of the poet, was commissioned to make a speech to the Prince at the head of the chapter. Condé wishing to disconcert the orator, advanced his head and large nose towards the Abbé, as if with the intention of hearing him more distinctly, but in reality to make him blunder if possible. The Abbé, who perceived his design, pretended to be greatly embarrassed, and thus began his speech: "My lord, your highness ought not to be surprised to see me tremble, when I appear before you at the head of a company of ecclesiastics; were I at the head of an army of thirty thousand men, I should tremble much more." The Prince was so |
|