I shall sell this place, and go in for something quieter." And at that moment there came a dreadful diversion.

Suddenly, and without the slightest warning, the doors at either end of the room opened.
Through the one came two enormous footmen laden with coffee and cream, etc., and through the other Johnson and another powdered monster bearing cognac and other liquors.

And there was Augusta with Eustace's arm round her, absolutely too paralysed to stir.

Just as the men came up she got away somehow, and stood looking like an idiot, while Eustace coloured to his eyes.

Indeed, the only people who showed no confusion were those magnificent menials, who never turned a single powdered hair, but went through their solemn rites with perfectly unabashed countenances.
"I can't stand this," said Augusta, feebly, when they had at length departed.