Martha hesitated. "'Tain't always petticoats makes an old woman," she said, sententiously.
"Martha, you are pro-foundly right," said the Boy. "Does the Professor stay to tea?"
"Thank goodness no, sir. We draw the line at that, 'cept when Miss Hann comes too."
"Who is Miss Hann?"
"She's the Professor's sister." Martha hesitated; poured hot water into the silver teapot; then turned to whisper confidentially, with concentrated dislike: "She's always a-hegging of 'em on!"
"What a curious occupation," remarked the Boy, blowing a smoke-ring. "Does Miss Hann come often?"
"No, Mr. Guy. Thanks be, she's a hinvalid."
"Poor Miss Hann. What's the matter with her?"
Martha snorted. "Fancies herself too much."
"What a curious complaint. What are the symptoms?"