“She’s done a great deal for me, more than I can ever repay.”

“Indeed.”

“Yes, in introducing me to the real inner circles of idiotcy. Well, in return, I’ve sworn—”

“You too!”

“What do you mean?”

“Oh, nothing. I beg your pardon. Please go on.”

She looked at him curiously, and continued.

“I’ve sworn—that is, pledged my honour, you know—”

“I know! I know!”

“To introduce her to at least one thoroughly sensible person—a man, she prefers.”