But I do not wish to assist in any of the Nugent decorations.

I am not so fond of the family as you may imagine; Lady Mary and Miss Nugent are less than indifferent to me.

Lady Mary is a mere manoeuvrer, that no straightforward person could like; and Miss Nugent is a mere handsome wax figure, with such clever machinery inside, that she can literally say the words, "mamma thaith." I have heard of a doll who could say "mamma," but she is still cleverer.' 'Colonel Vaughan bit his lips, knit his forehead, but smiled.

'You are severe upon your neighbours, Freda.' 'Do you admire them, then?
do you think Miss Nugent altogether charming?
or will she be perfect in your eyes the day after to-morrow ?' 'If perfection consists in being a beauty and an heiress, I need not go away from Glanyravon to seek one, Freda.' 'Do you stereotype your compliments?
I hear that you pay them wherever you go, and I hate compliments, particularly from people whose good opinion I value.

Besides, I am neither a beauty nor an heiress, and to be complimented in almost the same words as Miss Nugent is too contemptible.' 'You do not suppose that I class you together, Freda ?' 'I am thankful to say that you cannot do that, Colonel Vaughan, at least if I know myself at all; but, after all, I may be infinitely her inferior.' Freda got up from her drawing with a very flushed face.