Page:About people (IA aboutpeople00well).pdf/183

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WHO'S WHO?
177

should be the servant of all, especially of his entertainer. Introductions are too frequently matters of diplomacy rather than of good-will, and often are refused, if it is only the convenience of the host which is to be furthered thereby. As they are still required, it becomes difficult to manage a party; those invited being often preëngaged to each other for a conversation or a dance, so that there is no chance for the forced opportunities of presentations. Few people are old or free enough to speak to each other without the mediation of a third person. A most amusing instance of the consequence of such fearlessness was a scene between an elderly and middle-aged lady in a crowded supper-room on Beacon street. The younger one had eaten her salad and ices in unbroken silence; so had the elderly woman. At last the first ventured to remark that, as the room was very hot, the ice was refreshing.

"Yes," was the long-drawn reply, coupled with the words, "Have I met you before?"

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