"But, you know, a country doctor's wife is usually the emporium for all the local gossip.

It's expected of her." "Then I'm sure Mrs.Mowbray will never disappoint any one.

She fully comes up to expectations," observed Diana grimly.
"I suppose we shall have to call on these new people at Red Gables, Dad ?" asked Joan, after a brief interval.
Diana bent her head suddenly over her plate to hide the scarlet flush which flew into her cheeks at the suggestion.

She would _not_ call upon them--a thousand times no! Max Errington had shown her very distinctly in what estimation he held the honour of her friendship, and he should never have the chance of believing she had tried to thrust it on him.
"Well"-- the Rector was replying leisurely to Joan's inquiry--"I understand they are only going to be at Red Gables now and then--when Miss de Gervais wants a rest from her professional work, I expect.

But still, as they have come to our church and are strangers in the district, it would perhaps be neighbourly to call, wouldn't it ?" "Can't you call on them, Pobs ?" suggested Diana, "A sort of 'rectorial' visit, you know.