“I am not a woman,” said Mrs. Carden, “who carries tales.”
“But you are going to tell someone what Miss Archer said of her,” observed Mr. Herbert. “Men don’t do that.”
“Ah!”
“Nobody tells, really.”
“I did not tell, Jack,” said Mrs. Phillips.
“Tell us now,” said Sir John. “If you get the credit of telling we may as well derive some amusement from the story. Miss Archer, what do men usually tell you.”
“Different things. They do not confide in me. I am not sympathetic enough.”
“Are you not?” inquired Mr. Wainbridge. “I think you are. I should love to confide in you.”
He looked again at her, so did Mr. Herbert, and Lily observing both looks concerned herself with Mr. Herbert’s, which was one of admiration—developing admiration.
It was then that marriage with him appeared desirable, or rather the owning of him would be pleasant. Mrs. Phillips imagined her wedding and the wedding dress! He could admire another woman!