Most RespectfuS.
Among the stories _told of Charles Lever, the witty novelist, is one which concerns the days when he was British Consul at Trieste.
He had accompanied his daughter to London for a little social enjoyment, and had neglected to go through the formality of asking leave of absence. On his arrival in London he was invited to dinner by Lord Lytton, who was delighted to fes him. When he arrived at Lord Lytton's house his host Raid :
"I'm so glad you could come ! You will meet your chief, Clarendon'' — the Minister of Foreign Attain.
The novelist, much embarrassed, began to give reasons why he must tear himself away, but before he could make his escape Lord Clarendon ■vva= announced, and almost at once espied him.
"Ah, Mr Lever." he said blandly, "I didn't know you were in England ; in fact, I was not even aware that you had asked for leave from Trieste."'
"No-o, my lord," stammered the novelist, disconcerted for a second, but no more than tha: — "no, iiiy lord ; I thought it would, be more respectful to your lordship for me to come pad ask for it in person !"
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/OW19000628.2.374
Bibliographic details
Otago Witness, Issue 2416, 28 June 1900, Page 70
Word Count
193Most RespectfuS. Otago Witness, Issue 2416, 28 June 1900, Page 70
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