Dear old Jilly, he wouldn't let out on her for worlds.
A good many eyes turned curiously to where the Duke sat with his "go" before him.

Those who were quick at observing details noticed that he had ranged his cocoa-nut and ice on the edge of his plate, and was beginning to attack his herring with every sign of relish.

His portion consisted mostly of hard roe, for which he had no natural predilection, but this evening he seemed to enjoy it, helping it down with occasional bites at the bun, and keeping up a cheerful conversation the while.
The Bishop, too, who had a tail, was making a capital meal, as were also several other of the guests near him.
"Capital fish!" said the Duke presently.

Then beckoning to Raffles, "Can you get me a little more ?" "Yes, your grace." Tom felt a little anxious lest Raffles should select from out of the surplus "goes" one of those with the heads which were to eke out in a last emergency.

But when he saw that the duke's second helping consisted of a prime "waist" he rejoiced with all his heart.
"Isn't it nice ?" asked Jill, who had been busily at work under the shadow of his ducal wing.
"My dear little lady, I never tasted such a meal in my life." In due time the cocoa-nut and coffee-ice were attacked with quite as much relish as the first course; after which Tom, looking a little warm, rose and made a little speech.
"I hope you've all liked it," said he.