a state of nervous agitation, and in future confined his evening walks to the nine acres surrounding Cavendish House. His shyness was almost a disease, and was extremely embarrassing to himself and acquaintances. If Cavendish had not been such a recluse, he might have taken part in the doings of another famous Clapham house. Cavendish House was No. 100 Clapham Common, and No. 87 was the square and not very picturesque building of the Georgian type known as Battersea Rise House. This house was the rendezvous of Wilberforce, Zachary Macaulay, Thornton, and others of the anti-slavery crusade, who in their day wielded no small influence upon the destiny of mankind. Cavendish's work, however, lay in another line, for he was no philanthropist or politician.
Many are the stories of this eccentric individual. A few, however, must suffice. Ingenhousz, a distinguished scientist, entered upon a complimentary harangue, saying he had only come to England for the purpose of seeing the great Cavendish—so profound and so universally celebrated. Cavendish became speechless, nervous agitation seized him, and, overwhelmed with confusion, made a hasty retreat from the room, and on reaching his carriage was driven home.
On one occasion three or four friends (or rather acquaintances) being invited to dine with him, he was asked what he would like for dinner. He replied, "a
