"Is there one about seventeen?"
"Yes, I should say the pretty one—I forget her name, Elizabeth, I think—was just about that age. You should be introduced. But, by the by, it would be of little use. They leave the Grange in a few weeks, if indeed they are not gone already; for they were to be ready at a day's notice, and I haven't seen them since Sunday week. By the by, Russia seems very discontented. Do you think they meditate an invasion?"
"I never read politics. Are any of the other neighbours about to remove also?"
"Oh yes! Mr Poggs, the rich West Indian who bought Hartley Mead, that used to be a part of your park a hundred years ago, and fitted up the Gothic cottage at such an immense expense. He's bought out—fifteen thousand pounds for two hundred acres, and he is to remove next Michaelmas. By the by, which style of architecture do you prefer?"
"I know nothing of the subject. Has Mr Poggs a family?"
"Two daughters, but I scarcely know them. Old Poggs is half a dissenter. By the by"——
"How old are the daughters?"
"'Pon my word, my young friend, you would do for an inquisitor."
"I have a very particular reason for asking these questions."
"Ah I see!" said Mr Dobble, "young men will be curious about their neighbours' children. By the by, have you seen the Bishop of London's charge?"