“We haven’t yet—­that is to say, we are still at the table,” he remarked, as he followed me; “but if there is anything that you would like to have, I should be—­”

I interrupted him by declaring that I had supped heartily and did not want for anything in the world, and then, with some sort of an inarticulate excuse, he left me.  I knew very well that this nervously correct personage had jumped up from his dinner in order that he might meet me at the door and thus prevent my unconventional attire from shocking any of the servants.

It was very quiet and pleasant on the piazza, but, although I could hear that a great deal of talking was going on inside, no words came to me.  In a short time, however, a man-servant in livery came out upon the piazza and approached me with a tray on which were a cup of coffee and some cigars.  I could not refrain from smiling as I saw the man.

“The old fellow has been forced to conquer his prejudices,” I said to myself, “and to submit to the mortification of allowing me to be seen by his butler!”

I think, however, that even had the master been regarding us he would have seen no reason for mortification in the manner of his servant.  The man was extremely polite and attentive, suggesting various refreshments, such as wine and biscuits, and I never was treated by a lackey with more respect.

Leaning back in a comfortable chair, I sipped my coffee and puffed away at a perfectly delightful Havana cigar.  “Cathay is not a bad place,” said I, to myself.  “Its hospitality is a little queer, but as to gorgeousness, luxury, and——­” I was about to add another quality when my mind was diverted by a light step on the piazza, and, turning my head, I beheld the young lady I had seen before.  Instantly I rose and laid aside my cigar.

“Please do not disturb yourself,” she said.  “I simply came out to give a little message from my father.  Sit down again, and I will take this seat for a moment.  My father’s health is delicate,” she said, “and we do not like him to be out in the night air, especially after a rain.  So I came in his stead to tell you that if you would like to come into the house you must do so without the slightest hesitation, because my mother and I do not mind that dressing-gown any more than if it were an ordinary coat.  We are very glad to have the opportunity of entertaining you, for we know some people in Walford—­not very many, but some—­and we have heard you and your school spoken of very highly.  So we want you to make yourself perfectly at home, and come in or sit out here, just as your own feelings in regard to extraordinary fine clothes shall prompt you.”

At this she reassured me as to the beauty of her teeth.  “As long as you will sit out here,” said I, to myself, “there will be no in-doors for me.”

She seemed to read my thoughts, and said:  “If you will go on with your smoking, I will wait and ask you some things about Walford.  I dearly love the smell of a good cigar, and father never smokes.  He always keeps them, however, in case of gentlemen visitors.”