"Well, then, you must tell me who it is that talks of me in that objectionable manner; I do not like it."
"Shall I convey that intimation?"
"I choose to ask, simply that I may defend myself."
"I choose to keep him buried, then, simply to save his life."
Adela made a mouth, and Wilfrid went on: "By the way, I want you to know Lady Charlotte; you will take to one another. She likes you, already— says you want dash; but on that point there may be two opinions."
"If dash," said Adela, quite beguiled, "—that is, dash!—what does it mean? But, if Lady Charlotte means by dash—am I really wanting in it? I should define it, the quality of being openly natural without vulgarity; and surely…!"
"Then you two differ a little, and must meet and settle your dispute. You don't differ about Besworth: or, didn't. I never saw a woman so much in love with a place as she is."
"A place?" emphasized Adela.
"Don't be too arch. I comprehend. She won't take me minus Besworth, you may be sure."
"Did you, Wilfrid!—but you did not—offer yourself as owner of
Besworth?"