Now, under the aegis of that noble bird whom
your national instincts tempt you to destroy, she has on all previous
occasions taken her meals with us, at the same table, on terms of
perfect equality. She will naturally expect to do the same now. Mrs.
Bradley thought it proper, therefore, to warn you, that, in case your
health was not quite equal to this democratic simplicity, you could
still dine in your room."
"It would be great fun--if Miss Sharpe won't object to my presence."
"But it must not be 'great fun,'" returned Bradley, more seriously; "for
Miss Minty's perception of humor is probably as keen as yours, and she
would be quick to notice it. And, so far from having any objection
to you, I am inclined to think that we owe her consent to come to her
desire of making your acquaintance."
"She will find my conduct most exemplary," said Mainwaring, earnestly.
"Let us hope so," concluded Bradley, with unabated gravity. "And, now
that you have consented, let me add from my own experience that Miss
Minty's lemon-pies alone are worthy of any concession."
The dinner-hour came. Mainwaring, a little pale and interesting, leaning
on the arm of Bradley, crossed the hall, and for the first time entered
the dining-room of the house where he had lodged for three weeks.
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