"Maggie was there. I just happened to mention it." Hilda was still quite placid.
"You went down on purpose to tell her, so you needn't deny it. Do you take me for a fool?"
Her placidity was undiminished.
"Of course I don't take you for a fool, dear. I assure you I hadn't the slightest idea you'd be annoyed."
"Yes, you had. I could see it on your face when I came in. Don't try to stuff me up. You go blundering into a thing, without the least notion--without the least notion! I've told you before, and I tell you again--I won't have you interfering in my business affairs. You know nothing of business. You'll make my life impossible. All you women are the same. You will poke your noses in. There'll have to be a clear understanding between you and me on one or two points, before we go much further."
"But you told me I could mention it to her."
"No, I didn't."
"You did, Edwin. Do be just."
"I didn't say you could go and plunge right into it at once. These things have to be thought out. Houses aren't bought like that. A house isn't a pound of tea, and it isn't a hat."
"I'm very sorry."