"That word, Edmund, is never applied to well-bred women at any time of life. It is not in itself a term of reproach, but it refers generally to—" Miss Esperance paused.
"What's it refer to?"
"Well—to women of the less refined classes. It is a South of England word—somewhat equivalent to our 'lassie."
"Which is the less refined classes, Aunt Esperance? Is they in a school?"
"Oh, dear! Oh, dear! You do nothing but ask questions to-day," Miss Esperance sighed. "Still, it is right you should understand. The less refined classes, Edmund, are such as have not had many advantages in the way of education or upbringing. Excellent persons often——"
"Perhaps yon wench was an excellent person," Edmund suggested hopefully.
Miss Esperance showed no inclination to discuss the possible merits of this young woman, and Edmund continued, "Had you many advantages, Aunt Esperance?"
"Certainly I had."
"Then you was never a wench?"
"Never!"