You are
quite disposed, you are positively anxious, to make concessions to the
improbable. Once they are made--why, as you say, it is plain sailing."
"All life is a concession to the improbable," observed the bishop
rather vaguely.
Mr. Richards remarked:
"These questions must be approached with an open mind. An open mind,
gentlemen, is not necessarily an empty one."
"A fine distinction!"
"Very well. Mr. Keith proposes to abolish theatres. I second the
motion. Nothing is easier. Let me draw up a memorial to the House of
Lords. We will appeal to them on moral grounds. I know the proper
language. WHEREAS BY THE GRACE OF GOD YOUR PETITIONERS HUMBLY PROTEST
THAT THERE IS TOO MUCH KISSING ON THE STAGE--ah! Talking of kissing,
here comes our friend Don Francesco. He shall put his name to the
memorial and seal it with an oath. No Englishman can resist a
Monsignor. And nothing like a solemn oath. People always think you mean
it."
That amiable personage strode down the stairs in dignified fashion,
greeting the guests with a sonorous:
"PAX VOBISCUM!"
He could not be induced to stay long, however.
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