boyle's memory was indeed excellent. on one occasion he illustrated both the accuracy of his memory and the audacity of his character at the expense of a brother member. edmond stanley, anxious to produce an effect in an important debate, had been at pains to reduce his speech to writing. unluckily, stanley happened to drop his manuscript in the coffee-room, and walked back into the house unconscious of his loss. sir boyle, finding the document, speedily mastered its contents, and, rising at the first opportunity, delivered the speech almost verbatim in the hearing of its dismayed and astonished author. his apology afterward only added insult to injury: