Mrs.Askerton was very gracious to him, and she knew well how to be both gracious and ungracious.

She talked about the scenery, and the charms of the old place, and the dullness of the people around them, and the inexpediency of looking for society in country places; till after awhile Mr.Belton was once more at his ease.
"How is Colonel Askerton ?" asked Clara.
"He's in-doors.

Will you come and see him?
He's reading a French novel, as usual.

It's the only thing he ever does in summer.

Do you ever read French novels, Mr.Belton ?" "I read very little at all, and when I do I read English." "Ah, you're a man who has a pursuit in life, no doubt." "I should rather think so,--that is, if you mean, by a pursuit, earning my bread.