He always stands in that way before dinner.

In the evening he sits down much after the same fashion." Crosbie had seen him on first entering the room, and had seen every individual in it.

He knew better than to omit the duty of that scrutinising glance; but it sounded well in his line not to have observed Lord Dumbello.
"And her ladyship is not down ?" said he.
"She is generally last," said Lady Margaretta.
"And yet she has always three women to dress her," said Alexandrina.
"But when finished, what a success it is!" said Crosbie.
"Indeed it is!" said Margaretta, with energy.

Then the door was opened, and Lady Dumbello entered the room.
There was immediately a commotion among them all.

Even the gouty old lord shuffled up out of his chair, and tried, with a grin, to look sweet and pleasant.