She walked with her brother to the door, bade him be careful, and then returned.
“Now look here, Dr Bolter,” she said severely, “I am the last woman in the world to find fault, but I am your wife.”
“You are, my dear Mary, and the very, very best of wives!”
“That’s base flattery, sir,” said the little lady, who, however, looked pleased.
“Flattery? No! One never flatters one’s wife.”
“How do you know, sir?” cried Mrs Bolter, sharply.
“From what one reads, Mary. I never had a wife before; and I never flatter you.”
“No, sir, but you try something else; and I tell you I will not submit to be imposed upon!”
“I’m sure, my dear, I never impose upon you.”
“Indeed, sir; then what is this you propose doing? Why do you want to go away for three days?”