After all, she is only a snake and with a snake's nature, which is to keep low and squirm, and proceed by stealth and cunning.

She will never attack when she can run away, although she knows well that running away would probably be fatal to her.

What is the letter about ?" Sir Nathaniel's voice was calm and self-possessed.

When he was engaged in any struggle of wits he was all diplomatist.
"She asks Mimi and me to tea this afternoon at Diana's Grove, and hopes that you also will favour her." Sir Nathaniel smiled.
"Please ask Mrs.Salton to accept for us all." "She means some deadly mischief.

Surely--surely it would be wiser not." "It is an old trick that we learn early in diplomacy, Adam--to fight on ground of your own choice.