“But it is quite impossible to keep track of your beliefs.”
“Pardon me, I have opinions, but no beliefs. What else did he say?”
“You mean Mr. Shelden?”
“Yes. What other shoddy nineteenth century-ism did he repeat?”
“He said any number of things. He spoke about you.”
“Old gossip! What did he find to say about me?”
“He asked what you were doing.”
“I hope you had the courage to tell him it was none of his business.”
“I didn't do anything so rude. I told him you were writing. He seemed deeply impressed and said he had always liked you.”
“Humph! He's a startling novelty.”