"Do you think it's that, dear?"
"What else can it be?—unless it's a mere freak."
"Well, Jim, I thought—I thought perhaps that the Vicar had heard about—about—Littlehill. Yes, I know it's very stupid and narrow, dear—but still——"
The Doctor swore under his breath.
"I can't help it if the man's an ass," he said.
Ethel smiled patiently.
"It's a pity to offend people, Jim, dear, isn't it?"
"Are you against me too, Ethel?"
"Against you? You know I never would be, but——"
"Then do let us leave Denborough gossip alone. Fancy Denborough taking on itself to disapprove of Dale Bannister! It's too rich!"