"Why give anything?"
"What can I do, when fellows I know will get married?"
"Console yourself with the expectation of the crop you may reap some day."
"That depends! If I were to marry an heiress—I daresay I'd have a good harvest, on the principle of 'give an apple where there is an orchard'—you see," glancing at Verona, "that I can quote proverbs, as well as Mrs. Lepell."
"But she is not a cynic like you, Brian."
"Come, don't crush me in public, Aunt Liz. I hear"—turning to Verona—"that you have brought out no end of new books——"
"Yes, I have a good many; can I lend you some?"
"If you lend him a book, Verona, you will be sorry," interposed his aunt.
"Now—she is impeaching my honesty, you see! Any cheap paper-backed edition—not turning solely on murder and robbery—would be gratefully appreciated."
"I daresay I can supply your requirements."