What is a swell party? asks the Colonel, laughing. I dined with my brother last Wednesday; and it was a very grand dinner certainly. The Governor-General himself could not give a more splendid entertainment. But, do you know, I scarcely had enough to eat? I dont eat side dishes; and as for the roast beef of Old England, why, the meat was put on the table and whisked away like Sanchos inauguration feast at Barataria. We did not dine till nine oclock. I like a few glasses of claret and a cosy talk after dinner; but well, well(no doubt the worthy gentleman was accusing himself of telling tales out of school and had come to a timely repentance). Our dinner, I hope, will be different. Jack Binnie will take care of that. That fellow is full of anecdote and fun. You will meet one or two more of our service; Sir Thomas de Boots, who is not a bad chap over a glass of wine; Mr. Pendenniss chum, Mr. Warrington, and my nephew, Barnes Newcome a dry fellow at first, but I dare say he has good about him when you know him; almost every man has, said the good-natured philosopher. Clive, you rogue, mind and be moderate with the champagne, sir! 12 inch strap on
Champagnes for women, says Clive. I stick to claret
I say, Pendennis, here Bayham remarked, it is my deliberate opinion that F. B. has got into a good thing strapon world
Mr. Pendennis seeing there was a great party was for going home to his chambers to dress. Hm! says Mr. Bayham, dont see the necessity. What right-minded man looks at the exterior of his neighbour? He looks here, sir, and examines there, and Bayham tapped his forehead, which was expansive, and then his heart, which he considered to be in the right place.
What is this I hear about dressing? asks our host. Dine in your frock, my good friend, and welcome, if your dress-coat is in the country
It is at present at an uncles, Mr. Bayham said, with great gravity, and I take your hospitality as you offer it, Colonel Newcome, cordially and frankly