"Why? Because I ought to have been told—I should have shown them more civility."
"Why, what do you know of the Dovedales?"
"Nothing, personally; but they are in society."
"Well? Are not the Allonbys in society?"
"Claud, how idiotic you can be when you like."
"It is a matter of necessity, not choice, my sister. My brain never did work as fast as yours. But the speed of yours is abnormal. However, I should not lay myself open to a snub by calling in Mansfield Road now."
"Why?"
"Because, if they have any pride, and I fancy they have a good deal, they will not return your call."
"Claud! Not return my call?"
"I think not. They are very stiff with me."