"She is pale, Mrs.Hankey, there's no doubt of that; but pale folks are often the healthiest, though they mayn't be the handsomest.

And she is wiry, is Miss Elisabeth, though she may be thin.

But is your tea to your taste, or will you take a little more cream in it ?" "It is quite right, thank you, Mrs.Bateson; and the pork-pie is just beautiful.

What a light hand for pastry you always have! I'm sure I've said over and over again that I don't know your equal either for making pastry or for engaging in prayer." Mrs.Bateson, as was natural, looked pleased.

"I doubt if I ever made a better batch of pies than this.