human
Young man, said the worthy old lady,
gpt
I would have a word with you.
human
Certainly, Mrs. Knox. I hope it is something pleasant.
gpt
Well, that remains to be seen. What I want to know is this: are you interested in my niece?
human
Really, now you come to mention it, I believe I am.
gpt
More than interested?
human
Perhaps. Why?
gpt
Well, I was wondering whether you knew she was already engaged?
human
Engaged! Lena engaged! Impossible! She has--er--practically engaged herself to me, Mrs. Knox.
gpt
Precisely. That is the engagement to which I refer! I merely desired to ascertain whether your intentions were entirely honest.
human
I assure you, Mrs. Knox----
gpt
Quite so, Mr. Carrington; I understand. I have mentioned the matter to your papa, who leaves it entirely in my hands.
human
Really! But don't you think Miss Scott and I are the first persons to be considered?
gpt
That, my dear boy, is a matter for you to decide between yourselves. Lena is in the drawing-room. Perhaps you would like to exchange a few words. I will not intrude just yet. As a matter of fact, I have only just begun my breakfast. I have been ailing lately. My appetite is not what it was, but there are one or two things your dear housekeeper has provided to-day which have tempted me to eat.