Chapter xxii. The Major Makes Difficulties.
As I opened the dining-room door the Major hastened to meet me. He looked the brightest and the youngest of living elderly gentlemen, with his smart blue frock-coat, his winning smile, his ruby ring, and his ready compliment. It was quite cheering to meet the modern Don Juan once more.
“I don’t ask after your health,” said the old gentleman; “your eyes answer me, my dear lady, before I can put the question. At your age a long sleep is the true beauty-draught. Plenty of bed — there is the simple secret of keeping your good looks and living a long life — plenty of bed!”
“I have not been so long in my bed, Major, as you suppose. To tell the truth, I have been up all night, reading.”
Major Fitz–David lifted his well-painted eyebrows in polite sur
