8:30
Before going , the Washington man suggested that the newcomer join them that evening and see something of society at the capital . `` You know , '' he said , `` that outside of New Orleans , Washington is the only town in the country that has any colored society to speak of , and I feel that you distinguished men from different sections of the country owe it to our people that they should be allowed to see you . It would be an inspiration to them . '' So the matter was settled , and promptly at 8:30 o'clock Mr. Cornelius Johnson joined his friends at the door of his hotel . The grey Prince Albert was scrupulously buttoned about his form , and a shiny top hat replaced the felt of the afternoon . Thus clad , he went forth into society , where he need be followed only long enough to note the magnificence of his manners and the enthusiasm of his reception when he was introduced as Prof. Cornelius Johnson , of Alabama , in a tone which insinuated that he was the only really great man his state had produced . It might also be stated as an effect of this excursion into Vanity Fair , that when he woke the next morning he was in some doubt as to whether he should visit his Congressman or send for that individual to call upon him .