“Us, in Ireland!”—throwing herself back. “You have no more to say to Ireland than the parrot or your terrier. By the way, why did you import him?”
“I was lonesome like.”
“I believe he has chased the housekeeper’s best cat; and that cat is a personage, I can assure you.”
“I’m sorry; but he was always a terror for cats.”
“What a funny expression!”
“Well, when I’m too funny entirely, will you, for the love of goodness, give me a wink or a pinch. I know I just talk like the purest commonality—I’m not fit to be a lady.”
“You can’t help yourself; you are a lady.”
“I’m better than I was, thanks be to Miss Usher; she made me read aloud to her every day. Now, do tell me, when are you going to be married to my cousin?”
“Most probably never—though it would be a splendid match for me.”
“Then why not give in to it?”