Page:Through a Glass Lightly (1897, Greg).djvu/116

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THROUGH A GLASS LIGHTLY

effect, the stumpier vessels lending themselves less readily to the characteristics of a set of drinkers whose conviviality is roysterous in effect and type. The benignant quality of Hock is scarce suited to riotousness—appears expressed, indeed, for the sole delight of a leisurely and cultured palate. But this is mere opinion, and on this theme a difference is possible, and may be held with honour. At the next stage it is not.

With the Champagne man has become vainglorious: he is clamorous for a sign of the thing’s own character, for the frolic vapours of him have extended to his accessories. Now, in the matter of his vehicle, it is hard if you do not find his adventitious vulgarity somewhat accentuated. And, most of all, the right drinker frets and chafes at the Champagne glasses of

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