One evening of that week Sarah Bernhardt was at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham, giving “La Dame aux Camelias”. Paul wanted to see this old and famous actress, and he asked Clara to accompany him. He told his mother to leave the key in the window for him.
“Shall I book seats?” he asked of Clara.
“Yes. And put on an evening suit, will you? I’ve never seen you in it.”
“But, good Lord, Clara! Think of ME in evening suit at the theatre!” he remonstrated.