Actually, Arthur wasn't at all surprised by Disraeli and Mrs. Sykes taking a vacation together.
After all, for someone like Disraeli, an MP from the opposition, the closing of Parliament on August 21st provided an excellent opportunity to escape from the stifling summer in London and the mire of public opinion.
At that time, within London City, the Thames River steamed with humidity, dust swirled through the streets, and the sound of construction mingled with the Priest's sermons, making anyone feel it was not a place to linger.
Thus, carriages from Piccadilly began to transport MPs to their desired vacation destinations.
