Not
only in mind, but in face and manner, they slightly resembled each
other, and might, by the keen-sighted, have been set down at once as
cousins. Both were fair and slightly made, both were quick and clever.
Both faced the world with an air of energetic intelligence that bespoke
their intention of making a mark upon it. Both were liable to be
checked in a moment of earnest endeavour by a sudden perception of the
humorous, which liability rendered them somewhat superficial, and apt
of it lightly from one thought to another.
"I wish I could remember the name of papa's new scheme," said Joan, as
she bade them good-bye. When they were in the cab she ran to the door.
"I remember," she cried. "I remember now. It is malgamite."
CHAPTER III
BEGINNING AT HOME.
"Charity creates much of the misery it relieves, but it does not
relieve all the misery it creates."
Charity, as all the world knows, should begin at an "at home." Lord
Ferriby knew as well as any that there are men, and perhaps even women,
who will give largely in order that their names may appear largely and
handsomely in the select subscription lists. He also knew that an
invitation card in the present is as sure a bait as the promise of
bliss hereafter. So Lady Ferriby announced by card (in an open envelope
with a halfpenny stamp) that she should be "at home" to certain persons
on a certain evening. And the good and the great flocked to Cambridge
Terrace.
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