And it was only the heroical sense of duty that sustained Sir Anthony Fenimore that day.
I did not see the reception at the Railway Station or join the triumphal procession; but went early to the Town Hall and took my seat on the platform.

I glibly say "took my seat." A wheel-chair, sent there previously, was hoisted, with me inside, on to the platform by Marigold and a porter.

After all these years, I still hate to be publicly paraded, like a grizzled baby, in Marigold's arms.

For convenience' sake I was posted at the front left-hand corner.

The hall soon filled.
The first three rows of seats were reserved for the recipients of the municipality's special invitation; the remainder were occupied by the successful applicants for tickets.