But it was not easy to
find her off her guard. The unceasing strife of several seasons had
taught her to keep all the world at sword-point; she was armed
_cap-a-pie_, and ready always to fight with a clever woman's keenest
weapons--her eyes and tongue. Upon Harold she used both with
consummate skill; it was clear that she wished to please him,
addressing herself principally to him, asking his opinion on
scientific questions, coached up on purpose, and listening attentively
when he replied.
"How wise you have been to keep away from town these years! One gets
so sick of the perpetual round."
"I should have thought it truly delightful," said Mrs. Purling, who,
of course, took the unknown for the magnificent.
"Any honest labour would be preferable."
"Turn lady-help; that's my mother's common advice."
"Harold, how dare you suggest such a thing to Miss Fanshawe? Do you
know she is a peer's daughter?"
"I thought you said housework would do for the daughters of kings; and
you have proposed it to our cousin, Dolly Dri--"
"Were you at Ryde this year, Phillipa?" asked Mrs. Purling, promptly.
"No--at Cowes. We were yachting. Dreary business, don't you think, Mr.
Purling?"
"I rather like it."
"Yes, if you have a pleasant party and an object. But mere
cruising"--Miss Fanshawe was quick at shifting her ground.
Pages:
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
426
427
428
429
430
431
432
433
434
435
436
437
438