Do you mean that my discovery of the body is the result of a cold in
the head? and that, with a finer scent, I should have missed it
altogether? or were you only unconsciously remembering and dreamily
dipping your pen into the ink of my former description of "'Arry's"
chronic catarrh? In any case, I am charmed with what I have just read,
and only regret that the ridiculous "Romeike" has not hitherto sent me
your agreeable literature.--Also I am, dear Sir, your obedient
servant,

[Illustration]

_The End of the Piece_

Sir--I beg to draw your attention to the contents of your letter to
the _Scots Observer_, dated April 12th, in which you state that you
"regret the ridiculous Romeike has not hitherto sent me your agreeable
literature."

This statement, had it been true, was spiteful and injurious, but
being untrue (entirely) it becomes malicious, and I must ask you at
once to apologise.

And at the same time to draw your attention to the fact that we have
supplied you with 807 cuttings.

We have written to the _Scots Observer_ for an ample apology, or the
matter will be placed in our solicitor's hands, and we demand the same
of you.

Yours obediently,
ROMEIKE & CURTICE.
J. MCN. WHISTLER, Esq.
April 25, 1890.

_Exit the Prompter_

Sir--If it be not actionable, permit me to say that you _really are
delightful_!!

_Naivete_, like yours, I have never met--even in my long experience
with all those, some of whose "agreeable literature" may be, I
suppose, in the 807 cuttings you charge me for.

Who, in Heaven's name, ever dreamed of you as an actual person?--or
one whom one would mean to insult?

My good Sir, no such intention--believe me--did I, in my wildest of
moments, ever entertain.

_Your_ scalp--if you have such a thing--is safe enough!--and I even
think--however great my willingness to assist you--could not possibly
appear in the forthcoming Edition.

To Mr. ROMEIKE,
April 25.

[Illustration]

_L'Envoi_

When the Chairman, in a singularly brilliant and felicitous speech led
up to the toast of the evening, Mr. Whistler rose to his feet.

[Sidenote: _Sunday Times_, May 5, 1889.]

[Sidenote: Report of a reply to the toast of the evening
at the complimentary dinner given to Mr. Whistler,
London, May 1, 1889.]

"You must feel that, for me," said Mr