"[J. C.] came straight home and found the party in full blast.
He did not know a word about it. How could he? It grew up after he left home. I trembled in my shoes.
He behaved beautifully, however.
If he had refused to dine at the president's because he wished to attend a party at my house, he could not have done better. He seemed to enjoy the whole thing amazingly. Played casino with Mrs Lawson Clay, looked after Hood, &c&c.
Today he spoke. I was very penitent, subdued, submissive, humble. And I promised not to do so anymore.
'No more parties,' he said. 'The country is in danger. There is too much levity here.'
So he laid down the law."
