xvi A FOREWORD AND A PLEA 



people upon their best behaviour. Its nice refinement 

 secures the mood for politeness. Its heightened beauty 

 produces the disposition that delights in what is beauti- 

 ful in form and colour. Its queenly graciousness of 

 mien inspires the reluctant loyalty of even the stoniest 

 mind. Here, if anywhere, will the human hedgehog 

 unroll himself and deign to be companionable. Here, 

 friend Smith caught by its nameless charm, will drop his 

 brassy gabble and dare to be idealistic; and Jones, for- 

 getful of the main chance and 'bulls' and 'bears/ will 

 throw the rein of his sweeter self and reveal that latent 

 elevation of soul and tendency to romance known only 

 to his wife." 



