satisfaction, for I had already seen her album in Paris, and heard her
sigh for this very addition to its treasures. During dinner the
important intelligence that the Lumley letter was her own, was
imparted to the company generally.

"I knew it! I was sure of it from her smile, the moment I entered the
room!" exclaimed Mr. T----- the distinguished collector, who sat next
me.

Another guest, Miss Rowley, also a collecting celebrity, was sitting
opposite, and turned so pale at the moment, that I was on the point
of officiously recommending a glass of water.

"Have you albums in America, Mr. Howard?" inquired a charming
young lady on my right.

"There is no lack of them, I assure you,"--I replied.

"Really! Adela, Mr. Howard tells me they have albums in America!"
repeated the young lady to a charming sister, near her; while on my
left I had the satisfaction of hearing some gratifying remarks from
Mr. T-----, as to the state of civilization in my native country, as
shown by such a fact.

"And what are your albums like?" again inquired my lovely neighbor.

"Not like Lady Holberton's, perhaps--but pretty well for a young
nation."

"Oh dear--not like Lady Holberton's of course--hers is quite unique--