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dr Johnson Again


The good doctor evidently lived up to his reputation as a

tea-drinker at all times and places. Cumberland, the dramatist,

in his memoirs gives a story illustrative of the doctor's

tea-drinking powers: I remember when Sir Joshua Reynolds, at my

home, reminded Dr. Johnson that he had drunk eleven cups of tea.

'Sir,' he replied, 'I did not count your glasses of wine; why

should you number my cups of tea?'



At another time a certain Lady Macleod, after pouring out

sixteen cups for him, ventured mildly to ask whether a basin

would not save him trouble and be more convenient. I wonder,

madam, he replied, roughly, why all ladies ask such questions?

It is to save yourself trouble, not me, was the tactful

answer of his hostess.



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