Nothing was said to the major on the unpleasant subject of the Crawleys before dinner.

He met his sister in the drawing-room, and was allowed to kiss her noble cheek.

"I hope Edith is well, Henry," said the sister.

"Quite well; and little Dumbello is the same, I hope ?" "Thank you, yes; quite well." Then there seemed to be nothing more to be said between the two.

The major never made inquiries after the august family, or would allow it to appear that he was conscious of being shone upon by the wife of a marquis.