“Ay, gains—gains, Catherine, which you can assist me in obtaining.”
“I, papa? How could I assist you? I know nothing of business—I am sure I know nothing.”
“Business! ha! ha! It’s not business, Kate. The part which you will have to play will be one of pleasure—I hope so, at least.”
“Pray tell me what it is, papa! I am sure I’m fond of pleasure at all times—everybody knows that.”
“Catherine!” said her father, once more adopting the grave tone, “do you know how old you are?”
“Certainly, papa! at least, what I have been told. Eighteen—just past last birthday.”
“And do you know what young girls should, and generally do, think about, when they come to be of that age?”
Kate either affected or felt profound ignorance of the answer she was expected to make.
“Come!” said Mr Vaughan, banteringly, “you know what I mean, Catherine?”
“Indeed, papa, I do not. You know I keep no secrets from you; you taught me not. If I had any, I would tell them to you.”