"I know perfectly well she might do a great deal better," says he, with a modesty that sits very charmingly upon him.

"But if it comes to a choice between me and your brother, I--I think I am the better man.

By Jove, Curzon," growing hot, "it's awfully rude of me, I know, but it is so hard to remember that he _is_ your brother." But the professor does not seem offended.

He seems, indeed, so entirely unimpressed by Hardinge's last remark, that it may reasonably be supposed he hasn't heard a word of it.
"And she ?" says he.

"Perpetua.