But it was only when he was sitting on the deserted
bench beside Sir William Harcourt that one had an opportunity of
detecting any difference between his usual appearance and his
appearance at that particular moment. The minute he had any part to take
in the proceedings of the House, he was just as alert, cheerful,
self-composed as ever. This wonderful man is as much a miracle
physically as mentally. The giant intellect is backed by a steady nerve,
the perfect mind by the perfect body. And thus he is able to go through
trials, dangers, fatigues, which would destroy any ordinary man, as
though nothing had occurred. During this week, indeed, he was especially
playful. On the Tuesday night, when the onslaught was being made on Mr.
Bryce, Sir Henry James spoke of Lord Sefton as being a strong Liberal.
Mr. Gladstone uttered a quiet, gentle, deprecatory "Oh!" whereupon Sir
Henry James reiterated his statement with a look of surprise and shock.
Mr. Gladstone didn't depart from his attitude of gentle and almost
plaintive remonstrance. He waved his hand mildly, and with a smile, and
Sir Henry James was allowed to proceed to the solemn end of his solemn
harangue.
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