Flora sighed. It was curious that persons who lived what the novelists called a rich emotional life always seemed to be a bit slow on the uptake.

Surely she had endured enough for one evening without having to listen to intelligent conversation?

One of the disadvantages of almost universal education was the fact that all kinds of persons acquired a familiarity with one's favorite writers. It gave one a curious feeling; it was like seeing a drunken stranger wrapped in one's dressing gown.

I do not object to the phenomena, but I do object to the parrot.

You have the most revolting Florence Nightingale complex,' said Mrs. Smiling. It is not that at all, and well you know it. On the whole, I dislike my fellow beings; I find them so difficult to understand. But I have a tidy mind and untidy lives irritate me. Also, they are uncivilized.

That would be delightful,' agreed Flora, thinking how nasty and boring it would be.

Like all really strong-minded women, on whom everybody flops, she adored being bossed about. It was so restful.