The great man came, and Lady Carbury took him under her immediate wing with a grace that was all her own.  She said a word about their dear friends at Caversham, expressed her sorrow that her son’s engagements did not admit of his being there, and then with the utmost audacity rushed off to the article in the ‘Pulpit.’  Her friend, Mr Alf, the editor, had thoroughly appreciated the greatness of Mr Melmotte’s character, and the magnificence of Mr Melmotte’s undertakings.  Mr Melmotte bowed and muttered something that was inaudible.  ’Now I must introduce you to Mr Alf,’ said the lady.  The introduction was effected, and Mr Alf explained that it was hardly necessary, as he had already been entertained as one of Mr Melmotte’s guests.

’There were a great...