“The little picture opposite, Lady Shelmerdine. But you can’t really see it now the sun has got round to the west.”
Mother had to examine the gem, of course, like any other art critic. Glasses did great execution. Which was the Whistler? Ah, yes, to be sure, the name of the artist. An artist with a name so original was bound to be rated highly. A present from Sir Herbert Forrest, the famous actor-manager. Yes, Mother had seen him as the Woodman in Twelfth Night. How interesting to have such a memento from such a famous man. And how well you could see the park. And she did hope it was not too expensive. And everything in such good taste, although yellow for a wall-paper was a rather modern color. And such delicious tea. And what charming cups. A present from Mr. Vandeleur. How kind—a memento, of course, of his respect and admiration for dear Phil-ipp’s father.
“It didn’t say so on the card, though, Mater,” said dear Phil-ipp with a clumsiness for which, perhaps, he is to be forgiven. “It said on the card, ‘To Cinderella, from a Humble Admirer who wishes her every happiness.’”
So nice of Mr. Vandeleur to be so tactful. Could there be a clearer indication of Mr. Vandeleur’s esteem for a friend and colleague?
It hadn’t occurred to Hubby, though, that this really charming china tea-set was in any way connected with the great Proconsul.
Mother was a little hurt by this unfilial obtuseness. As though there could be any other reason. Mr. Vandeleur was so able, so responsible. However, the tea-service was charming—and blue china, too.
These were elegant preliminaries, but Mother’s mission was both high and delicate. Enormous tact was needed, you know. Suaviter in Modo this time at least.
Was it correct that Philip was standing for Parliament?—Oh, yes.
But as a Rag, Tag, and Bobtail, according to The Thunderer?—Yes, the Leading Morning Journal was correctly informed.
Somehow that seemed merely to leave matters in a state of suspended animation. Philip was pleasantly frank, yet without being particularly communicative. Mrs. Philip seemed wholly absorbed in the vernal prospect.