ation the suggestion that I should let a night pass before deciding. I at once determined to do so, for I am quick in carrying my resolutions into effect. The very next day I realized how sensible the advice had been, for night had given me the idea that I could do no better than put off my decision until Friday. Briefly, after having weighed all the pros and cons maturely—there was much in favour, but also much against—we went on Saturday afternoon, and returned on the Monday morning. I should not relate all this so precisely if it were not closely connected with my book. First of all I am anxious for you to know why I do not protest against the foolish things Stern is sure to have again dished up last Sunday. What kind of a story is that, of a person who would hear something when he was dead! Marie referred to it. She had got it from the young Rosemeyers, who are in sugar.—Secondly, because I have once more become absolutely convinced that all those stories about distress and unrest in the East are pure lies. This shows how travelling gives one the opportunity to fathom things properly.
You must know that my father-in-law had accepted an invitation for Saturday night to go and see a gentleman who was formerly a Resident in the East, and who now lives in a large villa. We all went there, and truly I cannot speak highly enough of the charming reception we had. The gentleman had sent his carriage to meet us, and the coachman wore a red waistcoat. It was certainly a little too cold yet to see the country place properly, though it must be splendid in summer. But inside the house you could not wish for anything they hadn’t got, everything to make life enjoyable: a billiard-room, a library, a covered-in glass house in the form of a gallery, and the cockatoo had a silver perch to sit on. I had never seen anything like it, and at once remarked how good conduct always receives its reward. The man had most carefully looked after his affairs, for he had quite three decorations. He owned this delightful country place, and in addition a house in
