Wait till you see Mamma's boy. 'E's a fair
razzle-dazzle from top to toe. Oh, my godmother!' And being seized
with another burst of hysterical laughter she dashed from the room.
[Illustration: 'A fair razzle-dazzle.']
I sighed as I put aside the French novel I had been reading when I was
so rudely disturbed. I could not help wishing just then that Elizabeth
had a little less character and a little more deference, and I decided
that I must rebuke her for her familiarity. Then, remembering her
supreme art in grilling a steak, I decided that rebukes--practised on
domestics--are rather risky things in these days.
'Good evening,' said the deep voice of William behind me.
'Good evening,' I said casually, turning round and holding out my hand.
Then I started back, my hand falling limply to my side. It was William
who stood before me, because I recognized his voice--but that was all I
recognized at the moment. Not a shred of his former self seemed to
have remained.
I think I have, from time to time, represented William as shabby,
bulky, shapeless, hairy, and altogether impossible as far as appearance
goes. Can any words depict my astonishment at seeing him so suddenly
transformed, glorified, redeemed and clean-shaven? His figure, which
once appeared so stodgy, now looked merely strong and athletic encased
in a well-fitting morning coat, a waistcoat of a discreet shade of
smoke grey, with a hint of starched pique slip at the opening.
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