"Oh, we always call dinner 'luncheon,' and have it in the middle of the day; it saves trouble, and it is less worry." Then, after a moment's pause: "I wish we had a lobster, but I don't think there is one. I know there is a beefsteak."
She went to the kitchen stairs.
"Susannah!"
"Yes, miss," answered a dolorous voice from below.
"Have you a lobster in the house?"
"No, miss."
"You have a beefsteak?"
A sound came as of search amongst the plates on the dresser.
"The beefsteak is gone, Miss Fanny."