“And what are you thinking about me?” asked Mrs. Pipchin.
“I’m thinking how old you must be,” said Paul.
“You mustn’t say such things as that, young gentleman,” returned the dame. “That’ll never do.”
“Why not?” asked Paul.
“Because it’s not polite,” said Mrs. Pipchin snappishly.
“Not polite?” said Paul.
“No.”
“It’s not polite,” said Paul innocently, “to eat all the mutton chops and toast, Wickam says.”
“Wickam,” retorted Mrs. Pipchin, colouring, “is a wicked, impudent, bold-faced hussy.”
“What’s that?” inquired Paul.