'Can it be him they mean that's the low tradesman ?' was Maria's mysterious exclamation.

She examined the pair, and added: 'Oh, no.

It must be the tall one they mistook for the small one.

But Mr.Harrington ought not to demean himself by keeping company with such, and my lady should know of it.' My lady, alighting from the Lymport coach, did know of it, within a few minutes after Evan had quitted the Green Dragon, and turned pale, as high-born dames naturally do when they hear of a relative's disregard of the company he keeps.
'A tailor, my lady!' said scornful Maria; and the Countess jumped and complained of a pin.
'How did you hear of this, Conning ?' she presently asked with composure.
'Oh, my lady, he was tipsy last night, and kept swearing out loud he was a gentleman.' 'Tipsy!' the Countess murmured in terror.

She had heard of inaccessible truths brought to light by the magic wand of alcohol.