Summary

Portrait of A. T. Quiller-Couch A. T. Quiller-Couch,  The Ship of Stars — XII. Taffy's Childhood comes to an End (1899)

“ Of dinner at the hotel he remembered nothing except that the candles on the tables had red shades, of which the silverware gave funny reflections; that the same waiter flitted about in the penumbra; and that Sir Harry, who was dressed like the waiter, said, "Wake up, young Marasheno! Do you take your coffee black?" "It's usually pale brown at home," answered Taffy; at which Sir Harry laughed again. "Black will suit you better to-night," he said, and poured out a small cupful, which Taffy drank and found exceedingly nasty. ”
Source: Wikisource

Portrait of A. T. Quiller-Couch A. T. Quiller-Couch,  The Ship of Stars — XII. Taffy's Childhood comes to an End (1899)

“ Their horse-play, at which George laughed so immoderately, called to Taffy to come and be happy, too; and when Jack the Giant-killer changed to Jack in the Beanstalk, and when in the Transformation Scene a real beanstalk grew and unfolded its leaves, and each leaf revealed a fairy seated, with the limelight flashing on star and jewelled wand, the longing became unbearable. The scene passed in a minute. The clown and pantaloon came on, and presently Sir Harry saw Taffy's shoulders shaking, and set it down to laughter at the harlequinade. ”
Source: Wikisource

Portrait of A. T. Quiller-Couch A. T. Quiller-Couch,  The Ship of Stars — XII. Taffy's Childhood comes to an End (1899)

“ Lapidary was scratched, which left it a soft thing, unless Sir Harry fancied a fox-catcher like Nursery Governess, in which case Billy behind the bar would do as much business as he liked at six-to-one." After a while Taffy discovered they were talking about horses, and wondered why they should meet to discuss horses in a dingy room up a back yard. "Youngster of yours is growin', Surrarry," said a red-faced man. "Who's his stable companion?" Taffy was introduced, and to his embarrassment Sir Harry began to relate his ridiculous mistake at lunch. The men roared with laughter. ”
Source: Wikisource

Get perspective with Kwize: daily news enlightened by great literature