84 TAKING ONE AT HIS WOKD. 



" We will see/' was the reply ; when approach- 

 ing it, the driver stopped his horses, and doffing 

 his hat, with a pull at his forelock, said — 



" Mrs. B.'s compliments, my lord, and has sent 

 for the geraniums." 



"What does the man mean?" asked the Earl, 

 in surprise. 



" Hoh ! hoh !" shouted Moreton, unable to con- 

 trol a loud fit of laughter, " by Jove I the little 

 woman has taken me at my word, and she shall 

 have them, too." 



" Nonsense ! " I said, " this is too bad ; I 

 really gave Mrs. B. credit for more common sense, 

 if not more moderation." 



Notwithstanding my remonstrances, however 

 (and I must confess to feeling very annoyed at the 

 inconsiderate conduct of my pretty neighbour), the 

 waggon was sent back loaded with geraniums and 

 hot-house plants. 



When thus generously disposed to common 

 acquaintances, it was a natural sequence that Lord 

 Ducie should be no less liberal and staunch to . 

 his friends ; and that such was the case, I could 

 adduce many proofs. I remember his coming to 

 my house one afternoon rather late, and asking if 

 I could give him a bed for the night, as he was on 

 his road to see a friend. 



