“You’re an Englishman, I suppose,” said Miss Hemster.
“In a sort of way I am, but really a citizen of the world. For many years past I have been less in England than in other countries.”
“For many years? Why, you talk as if you were an old man, and you don’t look a day more than thirty.”
“My looks do not libel me, Miss Hemster,” I replied with a laugh, “for I am not yet thirty.”
“I am twenty-one,” she said carelessly, “but every one says I don’t look more than seventeen.”
“I thought you were younger than seventeen,” said I, “when I first saw you a moment ago.”
“Did you really? I think it is very flattering of you to say so, and I hope you mean it.”
“I do, indeed, Miss Hemster.”
“Do you think I look younger than Hilda?” she asked archly, “most people do.”
“Hilda!” said I. “What Hilda?”