"—Or more!—"
"—He would still be tender—"
"—But he might grow outwardly hard!"
Both ladies looked up at Dr. Middleton, as they revealed the dreadful prospect.
"It is the story told of corns!" he said, sad as they.
The three stood drooping: the ladies with an attempt to digest his remark; the Rev. Doctor in dejection lest his gallantry should no longer continue to wrestle with his good sense.
He was rescued.
The door opened and a footman announced:—
"Mr. Dale."
Miss Eleanor and Miss Isabel made a sign to one another of raising their hands.