The vicar started, fidgeted, and blinked more nervously than ever.

Then Austin, with the most charming manner in the world, broke the spell.
"Really!" he exclaimed, turning towards the speaker, a bright smile of interest upon his face.

"That's a most delightfully original suggestion.

May I ask what religion you belong to ?" "What religion!" scowled the curate's friend, astounded at the enquiry.
"Yes--it must be one I never heard of," replied Austin, sweetly.

"I am so awfully ignorant, you know; I know nothing of geography, and scarcely anything about the religions of savage countries.