“Dr and Mrs Luttrell seem to age very much,” she said softly.
“Ah! they do,” said Thickens tightening his lips and making a furrow across the lower part of his face. “Yes: trouble, ma’am, trouble.”
“But they are a sweet couple, Mr Thickens.”
“Models, madam, models,” said the visitor, who became very thoughtful, and made a noise that sounded like “Soop!” as there was a pause, during which Mr Thickens took some tea.
“Have you seen Sir Gordon lately?” said Miss Heathery at last.
“No, madam. Back soon, though, I hope.”
“Ah!” sighed Miss Heathery, “do you think he will ever—ahem! marry now?”
“Never, ma’am,” said Thickens emphatically. “Too old.”
“Oh, no, Mr Thickens.”
“Oh, yes, Miss Heathery.”