They tell queer things about him downstairs.

They were saying--' 'I know, Rachel.

I've heard all about him; but he's reformed now.

And they have no business to tell tales about their masters.' 'No, mum--or else, they have said some things about Mr.Huntingdon too.' 'I won't hear them, Rachel; they tell lies.' 'Yes, mum,' said she, quietly, as she went on arranging my hair.
'Do you believe them, Rachel ?' I asked, after a short pause.
'No, Miss, not all.

You know when a lot of servants gets together they like to talk about their betters; and some, for a bit of swagger, likes to make it appear as though they knew more than they do, and to throw out hints and things just to astonish the others.