'Oh, yes. But I don't bite. I'm the kind of beast that runs away. I lie by the fire and purr, but at the first sign of trouble I jump for the open door. That's why the other fellows always got the better of me. They knew I was a coward, and profited by the knowledge. If my dear good uncle hadn't died, I don't know how I should have lived.'
'I'm afraid you have "lived" too much.'
'That was uncalled for.'
'Or else your looks belie you.'
'My looks?'
'You're so dissipated-looking.'
'Dissipated-looking? I? Horror!'
'You've got such a sophisticated eye, if that suits you better. You look blasé.'
'You're a horrid, rude, uncomplimentary thing.'
'Oh, if you're going to call names, I must summon my natural protector.' She blew on her golden whistle, and up trotted the obedient Bézigue.