Chapter XXI

Mr. Rogers and Mr. Luttrell—Society of Refined Englishmen—Mercurial Temperament of the French—Opposite Characters—M. Erard's Collection of Pictures—Antique Bijouterie—Lord Pembroke—The Duke of Hamilton—Dr. Parr—Reproof of the Duc de Blacas—Monsieur Mignet—His great Knowledge—A Clever Man—Influence of Conscience—Abilities of Lord Palmerston—Lord Castlereagh—His Uncle, the late Marquess of Londonderry—Dangers of Fashion—Mr. Cutlar Fergusson—The Baron and Baroness de Ruysch—A Mind at Ease—Dreary Weather—Sad State of the Streets—Fogs—Fascination of Madame Grassini—Sledge Party—Sledge of the Duc de Guiche—That of Comte d'Orsay—Picturesque Night Scene—Revival of an Old Fashion—The Prince Polignac—His Amiable Manners—His Difficult Position, 242.