'To-day I have a mind to sup with you, Heliodora.

Let that intruder know it; or I will do so myself.' Heliodora had the air of humouring a jest.

Putting forth a hand, she caught the stripling's ear and pinched it shrewdly.
'Little lord,' she said, 'you take too large a liberty.' Whereto Vivian replied with a pleasantry so broad and so significant that Heliodora's cheek fired; for she saw that Basil stood within hearing.
'Nay, I must be brief with you, young monkey!' she exclaimed.

'Away! When I am at leisure for your tricks I will send for you.

Be off!' 'And leave you with that... ?' cried the other, using a villainous word.
Hereupon Basil addressed him.
'Whether you stay or go, foul mouth, is naught to me.