_Mr. B._ (_overwhelmed with confusion, and not in the least knowing what he says_). No, no, I didn't think that--I hoped you mightn't--I mean, I was afraid you might-- [Stops short, oppressed by the impossibility of explaining. _Miss R._ You are not very complimentary to-night, are you? _Mr. B._ I can't pay compliments--to _you_--I don't know how it is, but I never can talk to you as I can to other people! _Miss R._ Are you amusing when you are with other people? _Mr. B._ At all events I can find things to say to _them_. Enter Another Man. _Another Man_ (_to_ Miss B.). Our dance, I think? _Miss R._ (_who had intended to get out of it_). I was wondering if you ever meant to come for it. (_To_ Mr. B., _as they rise._) Now I shan't feel I am depriving the other people! (_Perceives the speechless agony in his expression, and relents._) Well, you can have the next after this if you care about it--only _do_ try to think of something in the meantime! (_As she goes off._) You will--won't you? _Mr. B._ (_to himself_). She's given me another chance! If only I can rise to it. Let me see--what shall I begin with? _I_ know--_Supper!_ She hasn't been down yet. _His Hostess_. Oh, Mr. BOLDOVER, you're not dancing this--do be good and take someone down to supper--those poor Chaperons are dying for some food. [Mr. B. takes down a Matron whose repast is protracted through three waltzes and a set of Lancers--he comes up to find Miss ROUNDARM gone, and the Musicians putting up their instruments. _Coachman at door_ (_to Linkman, as Mr. B. goes down the steps_). That's the _lot_, JIM! [Mr. B. walks home, wishing the Park Gates were not shut, to as to render the Serpentine inaccessible_ * * * * * [Illustration: SHADOWING AT HENLEY REGATTA. TOBY, M.P., TAKES AN INSTANTANEOUS PHOTOGRAPH WITH HIS DETECTIVE CAMERA IN THE BOW OF MR. PUNCH'S BOAT, WITH THE ABOVE EXTRAORDINARY RESULT.] * * * * * ESSENCE OF PARLIAMENT. EXTRACTED FROM THE DIARY OF TOBY, M.P. _House of Commons, Monday, July 7._--Cabinet Council on Saturday; House begins to think it's time Ministers made up their minds what they're going to do with business of Session. But OLD MORALITY returns customary answer. Ministry still carefully considering question. Meantime he has nothing to say.