seven
p.m.
But to-night it was as cheerful as possible . The mysteries of it all are too great for me to attempt to pierce them ; but it is really incredible what a number of processes are necessary before an oldish man , who is something of a buck and something of an invalid , and altogether self-centered , is able to lay him down to rest . There are strange doses to be prepared and drunk , strange manipulations to be performed and very particular little ceremonies to be observed , each in its proper place . Each to-night was accompanied by some genial comment : the senna-pod distillation , that had been soaking since seven p.m. in hot water , was drunk almost with the air of a toast ; the massaging of the ankles and toes -LRB- an exercise invented entirely by Lord Talgarth himself -RRB- might have been almost in preparation for a dance . He stood up at last , an erect , stoutish figure , in quilted dressing-gown and pyjamas , before the fire , as his man put on his slippers for him , for the little procession into the next room . `` I think I 'm better to-night , Clarkson , '' he said . `` Your lordship seems very well indeed , my lord , '' murmured that diplomat on the hearth-rug .