We used to see the visitors at dessert
only. I remember Mr. Gillott as always being very cheery in manner,
with a kind smile; and few words. As children, when we went to
dancing parties at his house, he would come during the evening, with
a few old friends (the fathers of the children assembled), and,
standing in the door of the drawing-room, pat the children on the
head and have a little joke with them as they passed him. He would
stay for about half-an-hour or so, and then return with his friends
down-stairs to smoke. I have heard papa, who, as you know, was no
mean judge, say what a remarkably quick ear Mr. Gillott had for
music. When they had been together to hear a new opera, he, on his
return home, would whistle correctly the greater portion of the
music, having only heard it once."
Personally, Mr. Gillott was rather short, and was of broad and sturdy
build. He had a remarkably firm step, and there was a rhythmic
regularity in his footfall.
Pages:
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233