Mary, Geoffrey, and Mr. Mayhew exchanged looks of unqualified amazement, and again an awkward silence ensued.
Mrs. Blundell once more proceeded in a louder and more forte key:
“I am surprised to see Lady Fairfax entertaining visitors; I had no idea she ever had people staying here.”
“We are the exception that proves the rule,” replied Geoffrey at the top of his naturally robust organ.
“Are you staying in the house—you two young men?” indicating Geoffrey and Reginald with a fat forefinger.
“Yes,” returned Geoffrey, who had taken upon himself the task of answering.
“Ah! I do not think I know your face,” to Geoffrey. “Are you in the Manister Bank?” patronisingly.
“No, I’m not;” rather sharply.
“Do you belong to this part of the country?”
“I have not that honour.”