There was a feeling among them that they had known each other a long time, though they were but acquaintances of to-day and yesterday.
"I have seldom seen anything more complete than that turn-out," said Mr.
Barker.

"The impression of mourning is perfect; it could not have been better if it had been planned by a New York undertaker." "Are New York undertakers such great artists ?" asked Claudius.
"Yes; people get buried more profusely there.

But don't you think it is remarkably fine ?" "Yes.

I suppose you are trying to make me say that the Countess is a beautiful woman," answered Claudius, who was beginning to understand Barker.

"If that is what you want, I yield at once.