"Pray go and tell them that I am busy," said Belle, who was engaged with her needle.

"I do not feel disposed to take part in any such nonsense." "I shall do no such thing," said I; "and I insist upon your coming forthwith, and showing proper courtesy to your visitors.

If you do not, their feelings will be hurt, and you are aware that I cannot bear that people's feelings should be outraged.

Come this moment, or--" "Or what ?" said Belle, half smiling.

"I was about to say something in Armenian," said I.