Presently, without stop, and as though it was the continuation of a
melody, the first notes of "God Save the Queen" were heard. Instantly
the head of every Englishman and Canadian was uncovered--quietly, and
without ostentation or slightest break in hand-shaking and talking. It
was like a military movement by bugle call! Some of us who were
looking on through filmy curtains thought it a beautiful manifestation
of loving loyalty. They were at a military post of another nation, in
the midst of being introduced to its officers, yet not one failed to
remember and to remind, that he was an Englishman ever!
Mrs. Gordon saved me the worry of preparing an elaborate dinner at
this far-away place, by inviting us and our guest to dine with her and
her guests. I am inclined to think that this may have been a shrewd
move on the part of the dear friend, so she could have Hang to assist
her own cook at her dinner. It was a fine arrangement, at all events,
and pleased me most of all. I made the salad and arranged the table
for her. Judging from what I saw and heard, Hang was having a glorious
time. He had evidently frightened the old colored cook into complete
idiocy, and was ordering her about in a way that only a Chinaman
knows.
The dinner was long, but delicious and enjoyable in every way. Lord
Bagot, the Rev. Dr. MacGregor, Captain Chater, and others of the
governor general's staff were there--sixteen of us in all.
Pages:
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304