“Lead on to the upper regions,” said Serena in my ear. “I am tired of this vulgar admiration.”
I did lead on. Serena glanced approvingly in all the rooms as we passed. She liked the dining-room, and reception-room, but particularly the library.
“There is culture for you,” she said surveying the books. “Mrs. Darley hasn't half as many tomes as these.”
“What do you mean by tomes?” I inquired.
“A tome means as many writings as are bound in a volume, and a volume means a book, goosie—show me your bedroom.”
To get to my room we had to pass Slyboots in the hall.
“Introduce me,” said Serena imperiously.
Quaking on my velvet paws, I walked up to the big sofa by the window. “Slyboots,” I said, “my sister Serena wishes to be introduced to you.”
Slyboots shut her eyes, and pretended to go to sleep.
“What a charming vista,” remarked Serena going close up, and peering out over her shoulder at the long avenue of trees on the Common.