"But, Maurice, it may not even be true!"

"Apparently, Carter knows that equally it may be true."

"You can't seriously approve of Aunt Ermy's being made to pay a sum like that!"

"I think it's very hard luck on Ermyntrude, but I also think Gladys Baker has been grossly imposed upon."

"Yes, if she'd been a sheltered plant, but as far as I can make out she's nothing of the sort, but perfectly able to take care of herself."

"You're not in a position to be judge of that," he replied.

She said rather crossly: "I never thought you'd give advice like that to Aunt Ermy. As a matter of fact, I was afraid you'd wish her to get rid of Wally, and do nothing about this mess of his."

He looked at her in faint surprise. "Why should I?"

"Well, I know you're fond of her, and you can't pretend that you think Wally's likely to improve with keeping."

"You're quite right: I am fond of her, but I know very well that a divorce would only make her unhappy. As for your Cousin Wally, this episode may have taught him a lesson."