May I have the honour of drinking your health ?" The Consul regarded his brother with some astonishment.

It was seldom that he took much notice of the young people who came to the house, especially if they belonged to the Church.
"Well, you see," whispered Uncle Richard, "I don't think this one's so bad." Fanny also noticed the attention that was shown to the new guest, who sat opposite to her, and, glancing at him, thought he might prove not interesting.

True, he was not so refined as Delphin, nor so good looking as Worse, but still her eyes often wandered in his direction.

Neither Worse, who sat on her right hand, nor Delphin, who was on her left, had much attraction for her.

Worse, although perfectly polite, paid her but little attention; and that Delphin was at her feet was only natural--it was a fate that, without exception, had befallen all her father's secretaries since her girlhood.
Mr.Johnsen was now drawn into the conversation.