"It's rather a shame—that part, I mean; but it couldn't be helped. Well, at any rate, I've played the time-honoured rôle of Carlsbad. I've cured her daughter of the gout. That should be counted unto me for righteousness."
"It will, dear. It must. Oh, Chloe, I'm so excited!"
"Why?"
"How forgetful you are! In two hours he will be here. How wonderful it seems!"
"He? Oh, of course, Mr. Bush. Now, Daisy, if you really do wish to get out of society, don't spoil everything by flirting with James Bush instead of with me."
"Flirting!" cried Mrs. Verulam indignantly. "James Bush never flirts; he doesn't know the meaning of the word."
"Then he ought to get one of those explanatory dictionaries—they're only half a dollar apiece."
"Don't, Chloe. Don't be flippant about Mr. Bush. It—it isn't suitable. When you see him you'll understand that in a moment. James Bush has a lofty nature, a little reserved, perhaps. He is apt to be reticent with strangers."
"Does that mean that he never opens his mouth to anyone who isn't a blood relation?"
"I should not go so far as to say that. Still, he is reticent."