Diana of the Crossways — Volume 1 by George Meredith
page 90 of 113 (79%)
page 90 of 113 (79%)
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understood Diana's meaning.
'Really! really! honour !' Diana emphasized her extravagant praise, to print it fast. 'Hear him speak of Ireland.' 'Would he not speak of Ireland in a tone to catch the Irishwoman?' 'He is past thoughts of catching, dearest. At that age men are pools of fish, or what you will: they are not anglers. Next year, if you invite us, we will come again.' 'But you will come to stay in the Winter?' 'Certainly. But I am speaking of one of my holidays.' They kissed fervently. The lady mounted; the grey and portly lord followed her; Sir Lukin flourished his whip, and Emma was left to brood over her friend's last words: 'One of my holidays.' Not a hint to the detriment of her husband had passed. The stray beam balefully illuminating her marriage slipped from her involuntarily. Sir Lukin was troublesome with his ejaculations that evening, and kept speculating on the time of the arrival of the four-in-hand in London; upon which he thought a great deal depended. They had driven out of town early, and if they drove back late they would not be seen, as all the cacklers were sure then to be dressing for dinner, and he would not pass the Clubs. 'I couldn't suggest it,' he said. 'But Dannisburgh's an old hand. But they say he snaps his fingers at tattle, and laughs. Well, it doesn't matter for him, perhaps, but a game of two . . . . Oh! it'll be all right. They can't reach London before dusk. And the cat's away.' |
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