“Are Mrs Smith residing here this afternoon?” require Mrs Bogle.

“Yes, if convenient,” I say to.

“Are she too busy to appear?”

“Yes. Thanks.”

“Will she not appear to me, her dear-friend?”

“No, Mrs Madam. Sorry. Too busy.”

“Busy what with?” This from her.

“She are employing a dressmake lady to gossip about you.”

“Me!!” she exclam without sugar.