In the matter of eating and drinking his prudence notably contradicted his precepts.

He loved strong meats, dishes highly flavoured, and partook of them without moderation.

At table his beverage was ale; for wine--unless it were very sweet port--he cared little; but in the privacy of his own room, whilst smoking numberless pipes of rank tobacco, he indulged freely in spirits.

The habit was unknown to his children, but for some years he had seldom gone to bed in a condition that merited the name of sobriety.
When the repast was nearly over, Mr.Lord glanced at his son and said unconcernedly: 'You have heard that Nancy wants to mix with the rag-tag and bobtail to-morrow night ?' 'I shall take care of her,' Horace replied, starting from his reverie.
'Doesn't it seem to you rather a come-down for an educated young lady ?' 'Oh, there'll be lots of them about.' 'Will there?
Then I can't see much difference between them and the servant girls.' Nancy put in a word.
'That shows you don't in the least understand me, father.' 'We won't argue about it.

But bear in mind, Horace, that you bring your sister back not later than half-past eleven.