Such is ever the effect upon vulgar minds of geniality in superiors: they love to be stooped to from the heights.
But this heartiness of manner is of the moment only, and for everybody; it manifests itself more personally in the circle of his intimates and is irresistible in week-end parties; but it disappears when Mr.Balfour retires into the shell of his private life and there deals with individuals, particularly with dependents.

It has no more to do with his spirit than his tail-coat and his white tie.

Its remarkable impression comes from its unexpectedness; its effect is the shock of surprise.

In public he is ready to shake the whole world by the hand, almost to pat it on the shoulder; but in private he is careful to see that the world does not enter even the remotest of his lodge gates.
"The truth about Arthur Balfour," said George Wyndham, "is this: he knows there's been one ice-age, and he thinks there's going to be another." Little as the general public may suspect it, the charming, gracious, and cultured Mr.Balfour is the most egotistical of men, and a man who would make almost any sacrifice to remain in office.

It costs him nothing to serve under Mr.Lloyd George; it would have cost him almost his life to be out of office during a period so exciting as that of the Great War.
He loves office more than anything this world can offer; neither in philosophy nor music, literature nor science, has he ever been able to find rest for his soul.