This tactic was no more lost on the Countess
than it was on Denry. And the Countess foiled it at every instant. In
truth, there existed between the Countess and Sir Jee a rather hot
rivalry in philanthropy and the cultivation of the higher welfare of the
district. He regarded himself, and she regarded herself, as the most
brightly glittering star of the Five Towns.
When the Countess had finished the recital of her journey, and the faces
of the group had gone through all the contortions proper to express
terror, amazement, admiration, and manly sympathy, Sir Jee took the
lead, coughed, and said in his elaborate style:
"Before we adjourn to the hall, will not your ladyship take a little
refreshment?"
"Oh no, thanks," said the Countess. "I'm not a bit upset." Then she
turned to the enslinged Denry and with concern added: "But will
_you_ have something?"
If she could have foreseen the consequences of her question, she might
never have put it. Still, she might have put it just the same.
Denry paused an instant, and an old habit rose up in him.
"Oh no, thanks," he said, and turning deliberately to Sir Jee, he added:
"Will _you_?"
This, of course, was mere crude insolence to the titled philanthropic
white-beard.
Pages:
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214