“I wonder at that,” replied the Canon, blandly. “And do you share your brother’s talent for oratory?”
“Oh, I say a few words now and then,” said Miss Railing, modestly.
“You should hear ’er talk,” interposed Mrs. Railing, with a significant nod.
“Well, I hold with women taking part in everything. I’m a Radical from top to toe.” Miss Railing stared hard at Lady Sophia, who was watching her with polite attention. “I can’t stand the sort of woman who sits at home and does nothing but read novels and go to balls. There’s an immense field for women’s activities. And who thinks now that women are inferior to men?”
“Ain’t she wonderful!” ejaculated Mrs. Railing, with unconcealed admiration.
“Ma!” protested her daughter.
“She says I always praise ’er in front of people,” Mrs. Railing laughed good-humouredly. “But I can’t ’elp it. You should see all the prizes and certificates she’s got. Oh, I am proud of ’er, I can tell you.”
“Ma, don’t go on like that always. It makes people think I’m a child.”
“Well, Louie, I can’t ’elp it. You’re a marvel and there’s no denying it. Tell ’em about the gold medal you won.”
“I wish you would,” said Lord Spratte. “I always respect people with gold medals.”