"Precentor in the cathedral," surmised Mr.Slope.

Mr.
Harding confessed that such was the humble sphere of his work.

"Some parish duty as well," suggested Mr.Slope.

Mr.Harding acknowledged the diminutive incumbency of St.Cuthbert's.

Mr.Slope then left him alone, having condescended sufficiently, and joined the conversation among the higher powers.
There were four persons there, each of whom considered himself the most important personage in the diocese--himself, indeed, or herself, as Mrs.Proudie was one of them--and with such a difference of opinion it was not probable that they would get on pleasantly together.