"You do, no doubt; but that does not signify. Caroline is neither masculine, nor of what they call the spirited order of women."
"I have seen her flash out."
"So have I, but not with manly fire. It was a short, vivid, trembling glow, that shot up, shone, vanished——"
"And left her scared at her own daring. You describe others besides Caroline."
"The point I wish to establish is, that Miss Helstone, though gentle, tractable, and candid enough, is still perfectly capable of defying even Mr. Moore's penetration."
"What have you and she been doing?" asked Moore suddenly.
"Have you had any breakfast?"
"What is your mutual mystery?"
"If you are hungry, Mrs. Gill will give you something to eat here. Step into the oak parlour, and ring the bell. You will be served as if at an inn; or, if you like better, go back to the Hollow."
"The alternative is not open to me; I must go back. Good-morning. The first leisure I have I will see you again."