There was, first, to tell of Harry's school and its master, and Alan Ernescliffe's introduction of him to a nice-looking boy of his own age; then they were eloquent on the wonders of the dockyard, the Victory, the block machinery.

And London--while Dr.May went to transact some business, Norman had been with Alan at the British Museum, and though he had intended to see half London besides, there was no tearing him away from the Elgin marbles; and nothing would serve him, but bringing Dr.May the next morning to visit the Ninevite bulls.

Norman further said, that whereas papa could never go out of his house without meeting people who had something to say to him, it was the same elsewhere.

Six acquaintances he had met unexpectedly in London, and two at Portsmouth.
So the conversation went on all the evening, to the great delight of all.

It was more about things than people, though Flora inquired after Mr.Ernescliffe, and was told he had met them at the station, had been everywhere with them, and had dined at the Mackenzies' each day.