done things well. As it was for her future brother-in-law, she had

provided an escort from her own household. The officer of the Usher of

the Black Rod rode on horseback at the head of the cavalcade. The Usher

of the Black Rod carried, on a cushion placed on a seat of the carriage,

a black portfolio stamped with the royal crown. At Brentford, the last

relay before London, the carriages and escort halted. A four-horse

carriage of tortoise-shell, with two postilions, a coachman in a wig,

and four footmen, was in waiting. The wheels, steps, springs, pole, and

all the fittings of this carriage were gilt. The horses' harness was of

silver. This state coach was of an ancient and extraordinary shape, and

would have been distinguished by its grandeur among the fifty-one

celebrated carriages of which Roubo has left us drawings.

The Usher of the Black Rod and his officer alighted. The latter, having

lifted the cushion, on which rested the royal portfolio, from the seat

in the postchaise, carried it on outstretched hands, and stood behind

the Usher. He first opened the door of the empty carriage, then the door

of that occupied by Gwynplaine, and, with downcast eyes, respectfully

invited him to descend. Gwynplaine left the chaise, and took his seat in

the carriage. The Usher carrying the rod, and the officer supporting the

cushion, followed, and took their places on the low front seat provided

for pages in old state coaches. The inside of the carriage was lined

with white satin trimmed with Binche silk, with tufts and tassels of

silver. The roof was painted with armorial bearings. The postilions of

the chaises they were leaving were dressed in the royal livery. The

attendants of the carriage they now entered wore a different but very

magnificent livery.

778

The Man Who Laughs