“Has it been a fine summer at Turriparva?”
“I believe everywhere.”
“I am afraid Mr. von Philipson finds it rather dull here?”
“I am not aware of it.”
“He seems a ve-ry—?” said Beckendorff, looking keenly in his companion’s face. But Vivian did not supply the desired phrase; and so the Minister was forced to finish the sentence himself, “a very gentlemanlike sort of man?” A low bow was the only response.
“I trust, sir, I may indulge the hope,” continued Mr. Beckendorff, “that you will honour me with your company another day.”
“You are exceedingly obliging!”
“Mr. von Philipson is fond, I think, of a country life?” said Beckendorff.
“Most men are.”
“I suppose he has no innate objection to live occasionally in a city?”