human
Now, Maude, there is no use in your looking so profoundly scandalized about it, because I have done nothing so very naughty. You don't expect me to go and shut myself up, and nurse him--do you? Though I dare say you, having the elements of a martyr in you, would do it just as soon as not!
gpt
I would not flirt with that Turkish ambassador, at all events! said Lady Maude, in a tone of slight rebuke.
human
Have you not heard he has four wives already?
gpt
Perhaps he thinks I'll make a fifth some day! said the duchess, laughing.
human
Well, I wouldn't mind much; he is handsome enough for anything. There! I knew I would shock you again. How saintly you have grown of late, Maude!
gpt
Oh, Clara!--Clara! what a mad little flirt you are!
human
Well, you see it's my nature. What a love of a little dog this is! I made a _mariage de convenance_; and what other result could you anticipate? I married the Duke of B. for his coronet; he married me because he wanted some one to nurse him, and poultice up his constitution, and sit at the head of his table, and make herself generally useful. I got what I aimed at; and if he has not, it shows I am the better politician of the two. Stand upon your hind-legs, Prince! And, therefore, oh, wise and discreet Lady Villiers! model wife and happy mother, you must not expect one who is neither to do otherwise than as she does. If my sole earthly happiness consists in a 'coach-and-four,' superb diamonds, an unlimited number of lovers, and a box at the opera, why, I rather think I should be permitted to enjoy them, since I am really not a bad girl after all, and never mean to be. And now, as your toilet is completed, and I have made quite a long speech, will your ladyship be good enough to lead the way to the nursery? I want to see this little stray angel of yours before I descend among the sinners below.