When a man pays 110s.

a dozen for his champagne, and then gives it to guests like Lord Mongrober who are not even expected to return the favour, then that man ought to be allowed to talk about his wine without fear of rebuke.

One doesn't have an agreement to that effect written down on parchment and sealed; but it is as well understood and ought to be as faithfully kept as any legal contract.

Dick, who could on occasions be awakened to a touch of manliness, gave the bottle a shove and threw himself back in his chair.

"If you ask me, I can only tell you," repeated Lord Mongrober.
"I don't believe you ever had a bottle of wine put before you in better order in all your life," said Dick.