Mrs.Dinks was annoyed by the insult which Mrs.Dagon was tacitly putting upon her, and resolving upon revenge.
Meanwhile she turned over some illustrated books upon the table, as if engravings were of all things those that afforded her the profoundest satisfaction.
But she was conscious that she could not deceive Mrs.Dagon by an appearance of interest; so, after a few moments, Mrs.Dinks seated herself in a large easy-chair opposite that lady, who was still looking at her, shook her dress, glanced into the mirror with the utmost nonchalance, and finally, slowly drawing out her own glasses, raised them to her eyes, and with perfect indifference surveyed the enemy.
The ladies gazed at each other for a few moments in silence.
"How's your daughter, Mrs.Alfred Dinks ?" asked Mrs.Dagon, abruptly.
Mrs.Dinks continued to gaze without answering.

She was resolved to put down this dragon that laid waste society.

The dragon was instantly conscious that she had made a mistake in speaking, and was angry accordingly.

She said nothing more; she only glared.
"Good-morning, my dear Mrs.Dinks," said Mrs.Newt, in a troubled voice, as she entered the room.

"Oh my! isn't it--isn't it--singular ?" For Mrs.Newt was bewildered.