The Road to Mandalay - A Tale of Burma by B. M. (Bithia Mary) Croker
page 17 of 321 (05%)
page 17 of 321 (05%)
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"Luckily there are no girls at the rectory," remarked Miss Mitty. "Douglas is but nineteen, and really only a boy," protested Mrs. Billing. "Well, this affair will make a man of him, or I'm greatly mistaken." "More likely it will make him a slave," argued Jane; "he is bound to support his mother, and a hundred and fifty pounds a year won't go far with her! And now I dare say she will have her wish and be able to live in London. I suppose there will be an auction at 'Littlecote'?" "Yes, of course," assented Mrs. Billing, "and that is sure to bring in a handsome sum--unless there are liabilities and debts. I've always admired that Crown Derby tea service--dark blue and gold." "I know," rejoined Miss Tebbs, "a beautiful long set, and there's a nice little old Sheffield tea urn that we could do with! I expect the kitchen things will go pretty cheap; we want a new preserving pan." "Talking of the kitchen, reminds me of food," remarked the visitor rising. "My husband will be back clamouring for his lunch and I must run," and in spite of her size, Mrs. Billing was out of the house in less than no time, pursued by a volley of questions to the very gate. * * * * * * During that afternoon there was an unusual amount of visiting and talking; the recent event had stirred the village to its depths, but |
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