ngratulations are at
present the rule, I cannot make an exception," said Mr. Howe. "Thanks my
boy for this, and may you soon have occasion for another." "And
another," roared the crowd, taking up the last words of the secretary.
"My warmest thanks, Mr. Trevelyan," said the Lieutenant Colonel, warmly
pressing his young friend's hand. This last act of courtesy was more
gratefully received by Mr. Trevelyan than the noisy demonstrations of
his brother officers. Soon afterwards, guest after guest departed in
various moods and in various ways; some making zig-zag and circuitous
routes, while others were more steady in the bent of their direction.
More definite description might be given of these parties than that
pictured here. More details might be given of scenes of dissipation,
when each member must "drink himself under the table," to achieve the
respect of his fellows; but the writer forbears not wishing to expose
the darker shades of the picture, allowing the reader full control of
his or her imagination, if willing to go further. Suffice it to say, no
brawls had marred the "jolly time." All went away in good humour, while
the American was so loud in praise, that he almost wished himself an
officer in H. M. 52nd Regiment. Having made his adieu, Captain Douglas
took leave for his bachelor's quarters, held in the house on the site at
present occupied by George Minchin, Esq., on King Street, whither his
friend Howe had preceded him. In this building, was kept the Governor's
Office, as well. Here Captain Douglas found himself, as the darkest hour
that precedes the dawn reminded of approaching day. "Howe," said
he, "sit down and have a chat for a few moments. What did you think
of the affair? Of cousin Jonathan and his nephew?" "One question at a
time, Douglas," said Mr. Howe, pulling out a cigar case and passing one
to his friend. "In answer to your first, I may say that under the
circumstances there was some credit for being merry. It happened at a
deuced bad time, but Sir Thomas took his defeat manfully, while those
animated volcanoes, Hawley and Markham were wonderfully passive--a fact
we must attribute to Major McNair. The general melee and pow-wow in
which I was so unceremoniously toasted, taught a lesson. Jove, the Major
is entitled to an order if he can, by any means, reclaim any of the
52nd. But the most amusing of the crowd is Trevelyan, who reminds me of
an Englishman in Paris. He is clear, too. The oftener I see him