I fear I shall show but a dull bird amidst the gay plumage of Raglan.

But I could have better adorned myself had not I heard the bell ere I had begun, and feared to lose your ladyship's company, and in very deed make my first appearance before my lord as a transgressor of the laws of his household.' 'You did well, cousin Dorothy; for everything goes by law and order here.

All is reason and rhyme too in this house.

My lord's father, although one of the best and kindest of men, is, as I said, somewhat precise, and will, as he says himself, be king in his own kingdom--thinking doubtless of one who is not such.

I should not talk thus with you, cousin, were you like some young ladies I know; but there is that about you which pleases me greatly, and which I take to indicate discretion.