As we have found nothing of consequence in this portmanteau of yours,
it will be unnecessary to search the nineteen boxes of that gracious
lady, your wife. No doubt she has obeyed your instruction not to
smuggle. We are absolutely satisfied with your explanations, and are
greatly obliged to you for your kindness and condescension.

This is the way to the carriage. We have placed steps before the door,
as without a platform it is difficult to ascend.

No, Mein Herr, it is utterly impossible! We are forbidden by the
EMPEROR himself to accept a gratuity.

Yes, Madam, it is indeed without charge. Do not tempt us. Instant
dismissal is the penalty.

Certainly, Mein Herr, you could get the same politeness before the
EMPEROR issued his Imperial instructions.

But then the charge was a thaler!

* * * * *

THE GREAT TWIN BRETHREN.

["I do not wish to call Mr. GLADSTONE by a name which would
be both tasteless and pointless."--_Mr. A.V. Dicey's Letter to
the Times._]

Tasteless and pointless, DICEY? Well, the time _is_ out of joint,