Winthrop," I said gravely; "besides, I do not
go to their houses at all. I have only to acquaint Mrs. Blake that your
gift is ready for distribution."
"One of the servants will go to Mrs. Blake. You will need all your
strength to maintain the proprieties when your ragged crowd comes."
"Have you ever seen the Mill Road people?" I asked abruptly.
"Probably on the streets sometimes; but are they a very distinguished
looking crowd, that you ask?"
"No, but they are human beings just like ourselves, created in God's
image as clearly as the President of these United States, and some of
them fulfilling the end for which they were made quite as acceptably,
perhaps."
"The President would, no doubt, feel flattered to have his name so
coupled."
"I beg your pardon, Mr. Winthrop, I had forgotten your Presidents
conquered the high position they fill, and are not born to it like mere
puppets."
"You will compare your humble friends with European Royalties then, I
presume."
"Oh, any one dropping into a soft nest prepared for them by others will
do just as well," I said, not very politely.
Mrs. Flaxman looked on helplessly as she sat nervously creasing her
napkin; then with a sudden look of relief she said: "Shall I despatch
Esmerelda to the Mill Road? They will have little enough time to get all
that heap of good things carried away before night."
Mr. Winthrop signified his willingness, and as she was leaving the room
Mrs. Flaxman, by a look, summoned me to follow her.
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