"Did he seem pleased at that?" said Lady Gore, smiling.
"He will have to hear it, I'm afraid," said Gore, "whether it pleases him or not."
"I must say," said Lady Gore, "I can't help admiring Lord Stamfordham. I do like a man who is strong, and this man is head and shoulders above other people."
"Head and shoulders above little people perhaps," said Sir William.
"Mr. Rendel says that when once one is caught up in Lord Stamfordham's train, it is impossible not to follow him."
"Rendel!" said Sir William. "Oh, of course, if you're going to listen to what Stamfordham's hangers-on say...."
"Oh, William, please!" said Lady Gore. "Don't say that sort of thing about Mr. Rendel."
"Why?" said Sir William, amazed. "Why am I to speak of Rendel with bated breath?"
"Because ... suppose—suppose he were to be your son-in-law some day?"