“Apropos of pearls ...” Sir Oliver addressed Miss Sinquier, “I look forward to the privilege before long of inspecting your own.”
“They’re on her head, Sir Oliver!”
Sir Oliver started as a plate was passed unexpectedly over him from behind.
“Before approaching some City firm, it’s possible Lady Dawtry might welcome an opportunity of acquiring this poor child’s jewels for herself,” Mrs. Sixsmith said.
“Lady Dawtry!”
“Why not?”
“Lady Dawtry seldom wears ornaments; often I wish she would.”
“I wonder you don’t insist.”
Sir Oliver fetched a sigh.
“Many’s the time,” he said, “I’ve asked her to be a little more spectacular—but she won’t.”