After a few words with her he retired and presently brought in a big dish of cake, one of cheese and a pile of plates, set them on the table and went out.

There was a long pause and Mr.Greeley said, "Well, mother, shall I serve the cake ?" "Yes, if you want to." So he went over to the table, took a piece of cake and one of cheese in his fingers, putting them on a plate and carrying to each, until all were served.

The guests nibbled at them as best they could and after a long time the man brought in a pitcher of lemonade and some glasses and left the room.

Mr.Greeley again asked, "Well, mother, shall I serve the lemonade ?" "Yes, if you want to," she replied, so he filled the glasses, carried to each separately, and then gathered them up one at a time, instead of all together on a waiter.

Both Mr.and Mrs.Greeley were thoroughly cordial and hospitable, both intellectually great, but utterly without social graces.