‘You’re faint,’ said the single gentleman, who did nothing himself but walk about the room. ‘I see what’s the matter with you, ma’am. You’re faint.’
‘Thank you, sir, I’m not indeed.’
‘I know you are. I’m sure of it. I drag this poor woman from the bosom of her family at a minute’s notice, and she goes on getting fainter and fainter before my eyes. I’m a pretty fellow! How many children have you got, ma’am?’
‘Two, sir, besides Kit.’
‘Boys, ma’am?’
‘Yes, sir.’
‘Are they christened?’
‘Only half baptised as yet, sir.’
‘I’m godfather to both of ‘em. Remember that, if you please, ma’am. You had better have some mulled wine.’
‘I couldn’t touch a drop indeed, sir.’