Beta Book

"I have been
everywhere, sir; and even in Philadelphia and Paris there is nothing
like that house."
"Indeed?" Verty said, surveying the remarkable edifice.
"Do you see the portico?" said the gentleman, frowning.
"Yes," said Verty.
"That, sir, is exactly similar to the Acropolis--Pantheon at Rome."
"Eh?" said Verty.
"Yes, sir; and then the wings--do you see the wings?"
"Plainly," said Verty.
"Those, sir, are modeled on the State-House in Paris, and are intended
to shelter the youthful damsels, here assembled, as the wings of a hen
do the chickens of her bosom--hem! Cause and effect, sir--philosophy
and poetry unite to render this edifice the paragon and brag of
architectural magnificence."
"_Anan_?" said Verty.
"I see you speak French."
"That ain't French."
"No? Then it's something else. Going up there?"
"Yes," said Verty.
"Fine turkey that. For the old lady?"
"Who's the old lady?"
"Old Mrs. Scowley--a model of the divine sex, sir."
"No, it ain't for her," said Verty, smiling.


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