It was totally impossible, indeed, even in our taciturn household, that conversation should ever flag while she was among us.
Cousin Knollys and I went into the drawing-room together, leaving the gentlemen--rather ill-assorted, I fear--to entertain one another for a time.
'Come here, my dear, and sit near me,' said Lady Knollys, dropping into an easy chair with an energetic little plump, 'and tell me how you and your papa get on.

I can remember him quite a cheerful man once, and rather amusing--yes, indeed--and now you see what a bore he is--all by shutting himself up and nursing his whims and fancies.

Are those your drawings, dear ?' 'Yes, very bad, I'm afraid; but there are a few, _better_, I think in the portfolio in the cabinet in the hall.' 'They are by _no_ means bad, my dear; and you play, of course ?' 'Yes--that is, a little--pretty well, I hope.' 'I dare say.

I must hear you by-and-by.

And how does your papa amuse you?
You look bewildered, dear.