While vacationing near Tennyson's home one year, the Duke of Argyll and his family decided to drop in on the poet for a spot of dinner. Upon the arrival of his distinguished guests, Tennyson felt obliged to apologize for his casual attire.

"I can't dress for you, for I never dress for anyone," he explained. "If I made an exception and dressed for a duke, my butler would set me down as a snob."