Not only have I no interest in Mr.Mutimer, I even a little dislike him.' 'I had no idea of that, Adela,' said her mother, rather blankly.
'But it is the truth, and I feel I ought to have tried to make you understand that sooner.

I thought you would see that I had no pleasure in speaking of him.' 'But how is it possible to dislike him?
I confess that is very hard for me to understand.

I am sure his behaviour to you is perfect--so entirely respectful, so gentlemanly.' 'No, mother, that is not quite the word to use.

You are mistaken; Mr.
Mutimer is _not_ a perfect gentleman.' It was said with much decision, for to Adela's mind this clenched her argument.

Granted the absence of certain qualities which she held essential in a gentleman, there seemed to her no reason for another word on the subject.
'Pray, when has he misbehaved himself ?' inquired her mother, with a touch of pique.
'I cannot go into details.