“Of course, Sir. And no doubt there are hundreds who want to get their things taken.”
“A good many there are, certainly.”
“And everything can’t be published,” said the sagacious beauty.
“No, indeed; very much comes into our hands which cannot be published,” replied the experienced editor. “But this novel of yours, perhaps, may be published.”
“You think so?”
“Indeed I do. I cannot say what X., Y., and Z. may say to it. I’m afraid they will not do more than offer half profits.”
“And that doesn’t mean any money paid at once?” asked the lady plaintively.
“I’m afraid not.”
“Ah! if that could be managed!”
“I haven’t seen the publishers, and of course I can say nothing myself. You see I’m so busy myself with my uncles, and aunts, and grandmothers, and lady-loves——”