2^6          SOCIETY  AS I HAVE  FOUND  IT.

deed an unequaled scene of enchantment.
But this was not to be alone a feast for the
eye ; all that art could do, all that the
cleverest men could devise to spread before
the guests, such a feast as the gods should
enjoy, was done, and so well done that all
present felt, in the way of feasting, that
man could do no more ! The wines were
perfect. Blue seal Johannisberg flowed
like water. Incomparable '48 claret, superb
Burgundies, and amber-colored Madeira,
all were there to add to the intoxicating
delight of the scene. Then, soft music
stole over one's senses; lovely women's
eyes sparkled with delight at the beauty of
their surroundings, and I felt that the fair
being who sat next to me would have
graced Alexander's feast

" Sitting by my side,
Like a lovely Eastern bride,
In flower of youth and beauty's pride.'*