So the Baron handed a chair to the Reverend Saul, and then selecting another for himself in a convenient position, he ensconced himself in it as snugly as possible, and sat in silence for a few minutes. Lady Dalrymple took no notice of him whatever, but appeared to be engrossed with some trifle of needle-work.
After about five minutes the Baron resumed the task of making himself agreeable.
He cleared his throat.
"Long in these parts, ma'am?" he asked.
"Not very long," said Lady Dalrymple, with her usual bland good-nature.
"A nice place this," continued the Baron.
"Yes."
"And do you keep your health, ma'am?" inquired the Baron, with some anxiety.
"Thanks," said Lady Dalrymple; which observation set the Baron's mind wondering what she meant by that.
"Pray, ma'am," said he, after a pause, "might you be any relation to a young lady friend of mine that's staying here named Minnie Fay?"