“She is an out-and-out woman of the world, and very agreeable, as insincere people generally are. I like her because she was so polite to you.”
“Oh, that is your reading of her, is it?”
The rest of the walk passed almost in silence.
“Uncle, I am not sleepy to-night.”
“Who is? that young rascal has set me on fire with his yarns. Who would have thought that awkward cub had so much in him?”
“Awkward, but not a cub; say rather a black swan; and you know, uncle, a swan is an awkward thing on land, but when it takes the water it is glorious, and that man was glorious; but—Da—vid Do—dd.”
“I don't know whether he was glorious, but I know he amused me, and I'll have him to tea three times a week while he lasts.”
“Uncle, do you believe such an unfortunate combination of sounds is his real name?” asked Lucy, gravely.
“Why, who would be mad enough to feign such a name?”
“That is true; but now tell me—if he should ever, think of marrying with such a name?”