"How d' ye do," said Lady Bletchworth. "Ostend is very dull this year, don't you think?"
"I've just said that," Mrs. Adaile told her.
"It doesn't matter," said Lady Bletchworth. "It's a very good opening remark, and I make it to everybody."
"Won't you put me up to the correct answer?" asked Conrad; "I've only just come, and I should like to catch the tone."
"Most of them say, 'Oh, my dear!'" she replied; "but our latest novelty is, 'Southend! What?'"
"Mr. Warrener's people and I used to be very chummy ages ago," said Mrs. Adaile. "I am afraid to inquire, Mr. Warrener?"
"No," he said, "I—I am alone."
"He was quite nice in those days," she added to her sister.
"What has spoilt you, Mr. Warrener?"
"I find my world so sceptical, Lady Bletchworth."