"You are a good old fellow, and I won't abuse you any more to-day. Have you any news to tell me?"
"Not a word. Except that Effingham has sold that novel at last. Sold it for a song; but then it is a beginning."
"Well then, tell me about Lady Clarinda. What has she done!"
"Run away with the German adventurer."
"Nonsense! I wont have it."
"Can't be helped now."
"Yes, but it must. I insist upon her marrying Sir Gabriel Fairfax."
"But, my dear May, what's done can't be undone."
"Yes; but, Charlie, I insist upon Lady Clarinda marrying Sir Gabriel."
"Oh, nonsense! The public would not have it."