"And me, too, who am, as it were, an outpost of blood in this no-class neighbourhood," continued Mrs Scatchard.
Mavis wondered when she would be able to get away.
"My father was a tax-collector," Mrs Scatchard informed Mavis.
"Indeed!" said the latter.
"And in a most select London suburb. Do you believe in blood?"
"I think so."
"Then you must come here often. Blood is so scarce in North Kensington."
"Thank you."
"Why not stay and have a bit of dinner?"
"Lunch," corrected Miss Meakin with a frown.