It was one of the masterly and charming stories of Dumas the elder.

In five minutes I was in a new world, and my melancholy room was full of the liveliest French company.

The sound of an imperative and uncompromising bell recalled me in due time to the regions of reality.

I looked at my watch.

Nine o'clock.
Ambrose met me at the bottom of the stairs, and showed me the way to the supper-room.
Mr.Meadowcroft's invalid chair had been wheeled to the head of the table.