"It is a pity you and Grand are so rich!"
"Why? You do not insinuate, I hope, that I and my seven are merely eligible on that account. Now, what are you looking at me for, with that little twist in your lips that always means mischief?"
"Because I like you, and I am afraid you are being spoilt, John. I do so wish you had a nice wife. I should? at least, if you wished it yourself."
"A saving clause! Have you and Fred discussed me, madam?"
"No, I declare that we have not."
"I hope you have nobody to recommend, because I won't have her! I always particularly disliked red hair."
"Now what makes you suppose I was thinking of any one who has red hair?"
"You best know yourself whether you were not."
"Well," said Emily, after a pause for reflection, "now you mention it (I never did), I do not see that you could do better."
"I often think so myself, and that is partly why I am so set against it! No, Emily, it would be a shame to joke about an excellent and pleasant woman. The fact is, I have not the remotest intention of ever marrying again at all."