A chat with any of this family is an intellectual treat; so much can they tell one of people and places, and so many and varied are the leaves from their eventful lives. Also, the residence is an interesting study. One sees in it so many reminders from friends in all parts: testimonies of esteem and regard bestowed by illustrious donors, and pleasant little reminders come with them all--a little anecdote of this individual, and a little story connected with that place. [Illustration: GRAND STAIRCASE. _From a Photo. by Gunn & Stuart, Richmond._] Together we make the tour of the principal rooms, halting every now and again for anything of special interest, such as water-colours by His Excellency, paintings and miniatures collected by him on his foreign stations, furniture and plate formerly the property of the Napoleon family, and the exquisite floral decorations of the suite of rooms set apart for the reception in American style which is to take place after the ceremony. [Illustration: MODEL OF MANDALAY. _From a Photo. by Gunn & Stuart, Richmond._] Here we are presently joined by the Marquis and the bridegroom--Lord Terence Blackwood--together with his two younger brothers; we all turn again to the still arriving presents, everybody laughing and talking together in an unaffected and happy manner. Evidently the coming event affords complete satisfaction to this thoroughly typical English family; but time is getting on, the sight of the men in their gorgeous State liveries of blue and gold, powdered wigs, and pink silk stockings warns each and all of preparations to be made, so we disperse for the present, to meet many times later in the day, and also on subsequent occasions. Then I wander about at my own will and pleasure, and make myself more thoroughly acquainted with the house and its contents.