I will return in half an hour, when your toilet will doubtless be completed.' I found that my own clothes, with a little brushing, were as good as ever, but I availed myself of his offer to the extent of a ruffled shirt and a black satin cravat.

I had finished dressing and was looking out of the window of my room, which opened on to a blank wall, when my host returned.

He looked me all over with a keenly scrutinising eye, and appeared to be satisfied with what he saw.
'That will do! That will do very well indeed!' said he, nodding a critical head.

'In these times a slight indication of travel or hard work upon a costume is more fashionable than the foppishness of the Incroyable.

I have heard ladies remark that it was in better taste.
Now, sir, if you will kindly follow me.' His solicitude about my dress filled me with surprise, but this was soon forgotten in the shock which was awaiting me.