“How beastly!” he said.

“I don’t blame them. They haven’t any other interest.”

“I didn’t mean that. I meant this country. It is so flat and dull, regular railway scenery. What a place to choose for a picnic!”

“Wait until you get to the woods! We’re going to a place called Egypt. Don’t you think that’s romantic? Though it reminds me more of Oberon and Titania than of Anthony and Cleopatra.”

He looked blank, and she explained:—

“Shakespeare, you know.”

“I’ve never read Shakespeare.”

“Oh! you should.”

“I’ve tried, but I can’t understand him. I suppose it’s because I’m not English. It seems ridiculous to me, all those plots and murders.”