“I had anticipated the pleasure of communicating with Mrs. Vanstone,” answered this inveterately evasive and inveterately civil man. “How is she?”
“Much as usual,” said Miss Garth, feeling her resources of politeness fast failing her.
“Is she at home?”
“No.”
“Out for long?”
“Gone to London with Mr. Vanstone.”
The man’s long face suddenly grew longer. His bilious brown eye looked disconcerted, and his bilious green eye followed its example. His manner became palpably anxious; and his choice of words was more carefully selected than ever.
“Is Mrs. Vanstone’s absence likely to extend over any very lengthened period?” he inquired.
“It will extend over three weeks,” replied Miss Garth. “I think you have now asked me questions enough,” she went on, beginning to let her temper get the better of her at last. “Be so good, if you please, as to mention your business and your name. If you have any message to leave for Mrs. Vanstone, I shall be writing to her by to-night’s post, and I can take charge of it.”
“A thousand thanks! A most valuable suggestion. Permit me to take advantage of it immediately.”