“People of taste never do,” said Jim’s mother, beaming upon my lord.
The little maid-of-all-work brought in a tea-tray and a basket of comestibles.
“Miranda,” said her mistress, “if Mrs. Hobson calls, or Miss Hermia Hobson, or Miss Harriet Hobson, or Mr. Hobson, or Mr. Herbert Hobson, or Mr. Henry Hobson calls, I am not at home.”
“Thank you, ma’am,” said the little maid-of-all-work, with an air of great intelligence, and with a further display of the comic-opera courtesy.
“Sugar or lemon, Miss Burden?” said Jim’s mother.
Miss Burden took sugar, a small lump. Miss Perry took two lumps, size not stated.
“I wish these cups were more sensible,” said Jim’s mother, with a reminiscence and an apology.
“That cup is absurd, my dear,” said Jim.
Miss Perry seemed inclined to agree with Jim.
“Fetch the largest cup we have in the house, please, Miranda,” said her mistress.