But I cann't answer for what Miss PRENDERGAST
will say to it. It mayn't suit her notions of propriety.
_Mr. Van B._ I expect she'll be superior to Britannic prejudices of
that kind. I consider your friend a highly cultivated and charming
lady, MAUD. She produces that impression upon me.
_Miss T._ I presume, from that, she has shown an intelligent interest
in the great American novel?
_Mr. Van B._ Why, yes; it enlists her literary sympathies--she sees
all its possibilities.
_Miss T._ And they're pretty numerous, too. But here she comes. You'd
better tell her your plan right now.
_Miss P._ (_in an earnest undertone to BOB, as they approach,
followed by CULCH. and BOB_). You _must_ try and be sensible about
it, BOB; if _you_ are too blind to see that she is only--
BOB (_sulkily_). All _right_! Haven't I _said_ I'd go? What's the good
of _jawing_ about it?
_Mr. V.B._ (_to Miss P._) I've been telling my cousin I've been
organising a little water-party for this evening--moonlight,
mandolins, Menaggio. If you find that alliteration has any
attractions, I hope you and your brother will do me the pleasure of--
_Miss P._ I'm afraid not, thanks.
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