"And so you have quarrelled with her ladyship," said Mrs. Askerton. "I knew you would."
"I have not said anything about quarrelling with her."
"But of course you have. Come, now; don't make yourself disagreeable. You have had a downright battle;—have you not?"
"Something very like it, I'm afraid."
"I am so glad," said Mrs. Askerton, rubbing her hands.
"That is ill-natured."
"Very well. Let it be ill-natured. One isn't to be good-natured all round, or what would be the use of it? And what sort of woman is she?"
"Oh dear; I couldn't describe her. She is very large, and wears a great wig, and manages everything herself, and I've no doubt she's a very good woman in her own way."
"I can see her at once;—and a very pillar of virtue as regards morality and going to church. Poor me! Does she know that you have come here?"
"I have no doubt she does. I did not tell her, nor would I tell her daughter; but I told Captain Aylmer."