I suppose you have heard, sir, that Aunt Keswick and my father were on very bad terms, and would not have anything to do with each other ?" "Oh, yes," said Mr Brandon, "I have heard that." "But my father is not living now, and I am down here again." "And your husband?
He did not accompany you ?" said Mr Brandon.
"No," replied Mrs Null, very quickly.

"We were both very sorry that it was not possible for him to come with me." Mr Brandon's spirits began to rise.

This did not look quite like desertion.

"I have no doubt you have a very good husband.

I am sure you deserve such a one," he said with the air of a father, and the purpose of a lawyer.
"Good!" exclaimed Mrs Null, her eyes sparkling.
"He couldn't be better if he tried! Will you have sweet milk, or buttermilk ?" "Buttermilk, if you please," said Mr Brandon.