How Mr Gladstone Spends His Holidays.

Te Aroha News, Volume VIII, Issue 487, 9 July 1890, Page 6

How Mr Gladstone Spends His Holidays.

When staying in a country house Mr Gladstone (writes a London correspondent) pursues the even tcuour of his way, and goes on quite undisturbed, in his lifelong habits of industry and exercise. Ho is punctual at breakfast, and immediately after that meal retires to bis own room and is busily occupied with reading or writing till luncheon time. After luncheon he is ready for a walk or drive, a visit to any interesting object, or a friendly call. After a cup of tea at five o’clock he again retires to his room, and reappears at dinner time the gayest of the gay, full of fun and conversation,and prepared to bear his full share in the amusements of the evening, whether they take the form of ‘ Shakspere and the musical glasses ’or a round game. At bedtime he disappears, book in hand, and puts in another hour or so of systematic reading before he lies down to sleep. Mr Gladstone is an inveterate tea drinker, and, being an exception to all physical laws, finds a cup of strong tea an excellent sedative at bedtime. For the rest, the simplicity of his tastes is well known. Plain roast or boiled meat, a wholesome pudding, cheese, and his essential modicum of port wine constitute his frugal diet. Mr Gladstone shines as a guest. Ho is delightfully unspoilt, full of zest for common amusement, eager to please and to be pleased, and curiously grateful for the least civility or attention.