"Like oil paintings. They always look best at a distance, you know."
"Don't talk books to me," said the old lady, "I've had quite enough of your smart sayings in this," touching the volume on her lap.
"So I see! I told my publishers to send you a copy. I hope you like it."
"I do very, very much," cried Minnie clasping her hands, "it's simply too lovely for anything."
"The critics don't think so," said Aunt Jelly spitefully.
"And I suppose you agree with the critics," replied Eustace.
"Did you hear me say so?" demanded his aunt fiercely.
"No but----"
"Then don't cry out till you are hurt. Take a glass of wine--Minnie, the wine."
Miss Pelch poured out the wine with trembling hand, so excited she was at the presence of the great author, and Eustace, knowing his aunt's determination on the subject of port, drank it meekly although it was a wine he hated.