"I see, and he intends to be the vicar's son-in-law."
"What is that to you?"
"News!" expressed Lady Jim, serenely. "I never knew such a prig as Lionel could fall in love."
"His love is the love of an honest man," declared the old dame, striking her crutch on the carpet.
"I hope so, for the sake of his cloth."
"Chinese metaphysics indeed!" grumbled Lady Canvey. "The poor child did not know what you meant."
"She certainly seems to be somewhat dull."
"Dull yourself, Leah. She's a sweet-tempered, good, thoughtful girl."
"Oh, I didn't mean to say she was so dull as all those qualities imply," said Lady Jim, sweetly.
Lady Canvey looked wrathfully round for something to throw at her visitor's head. But the tea-table was too far away, and the old woman prized her cups and saucers. Finally she took refuge in a spiteful speech.