position would still carry with it a sufficient measure of
respect. Our desire to embellish its importance is absurd, and the
hysteria of the dailies is calculated to place a dignified gentleman
in a ridiculous light. Mrs. Reid's name and cultivation will doubtless
enable her to support a monotonous role with grace; but, in
consideration of British proficiency in matters ceremonial, their
money will not be called upon to add a jot to the dignity of their
reception. Their early departure has not prevented the opening of
their country place, Ophir Hall, in the vicinity of White Plains,
while their neighbor, Colonel Astor, has long been established at
Ferncliffe.

* * * * *

Miss Nannie Leiter, of studious renown, is visiting Chicago in the
company of her father. Mamma Leiter plans a garden party in compliment
to Ambassador and Madame Cambon, while brother Joseph courts fame from
the arena of Buffalo Bill; but for a clear space of a day or two we
have learned naught of Daisy of the violet orbs. They are the
loveliest eyes in Washington, by contrast with which the commoner
grays and blues appeal to the enamoured diplomats but as so many
soulless pebbles.

* * * * *

From London wafts the rumor that Alexandra, pleading a dread of
copy-designing peeresses, guards with jealous vigilance the secret of
her coronation crown, and gossip adds that she fears to have it
duplicated by some enterprising American. It is doubtful if the
peculiar humor of the British populace would allow of a full
appreciation of this joke. Years and etiquette combined have led her
Majesty to the thraldom of the rouge and enamel pot. Like the sensible
woman that she is she attempts no concealment of the fact that she
protects herself from becoming hideous by the employment of three
maids whose duty it is to successively undertake the embellishment of
the royal countenance. By means of this relief no one of these women
loses her delicacy of eye and touch, and Alexandra blooms with the
rosy softness of a girl.

* * * * *

The papers seem to be woefully wrought up over the financial rating of
Mr. Harry Lehr. Whether he is or whether he is not a wine boomer would
not ordinarily be a query of agitating importance. Nor yet is the
exact proportion of his yearly salary of national interest. No one
ever accused this agile gentleman of setting up for a millionaire