Before she quitted the dining-room he made a sign to her, and she soon returned, leaving Marian, Constance, and Elinor in the drawing-room.
"You will not mind my staying, I hope, George," she said, as she resumed her seat.
"A delightful precedent, and from a distinguished source," said the Rev.
George.

"Allow me to pass the bottle.

Ha! ha!" "Thank you, no," said the Countess.

"I never take wine." Her tone was inconclusive, as if she intended to take something else.
"Will you take brandy-and-soda ?" said her son, rather brusquely.
Lady Carbury lowered her eyelids in protest.

Then she said: "A very little, if you please, Jasper.