“‘I’m quite shocked at your negligence;’ echoed the other.
“‘Goodness, a man!’ screamed out the eldest, throwing her arms back, and nearly pitching off her balance as she entered the room.
“‘Goodness, a man!’ squeaked out the other in exactly the same tone, and with exactly the same motion.
“‘May I be allowed to know the cause which has conferred upon me the honour of a visit from a perfect stranger, as it seems very extraordinary,’ said the mumbler, advancing towards me with stately steps, and scrutinising me through her spectacles as if she would look right through me.
“‘It seems very extraordinary,’ remarked the other emphatically, as she also brought her spectacles to bear upon my person.
“‘Have I the honour of speaking to the amiable and accomplished Mrs. Parrot-cum-Poodle?” I inquired, advancing two steps with a grave and respectful air, and making a bow to the ground.
“I am that humble individual,” replied the ugliest of the two, making a profound courtesy; and then turning to her companion, she said in a whisper, “A very well spoken young man.”
“A very well spoken young man,” echoed the least ugliest.
“How much have I reason to be gratified with my good fortune;” I observed, looking as delighted as I could. “I have travelled far to procure it.”
“Take a seat, my dear sir!” exclaimed the old one, with a look of sympathy that did not make her look more agreeable.