Strange bent over these things, with a concentration to rival Minervois's own, questioning, criticizing and proposing. Strange and the two engravers spoke French to each other. To Strange's surprize Childermass understood perfectly and even addressed one or twoquestions to Minervois in his own language. Unfortunately, Childermass's French was so strongly accented by his native Yorkshire that Minervois did not understand and asked Strange if Childermass was Dutch.

He hardly ever spoke of magic, and when he did it was like a history lesson and no one could bear to listen to him.

Lovers are rarely the most rational beings in creation.

The governess was not much liked in the village. She was too tall, too fond of books, too grave, and, a curious thing, never smiled unless there was something to smile at.

Well, I suppose one ought not to employ a magician and then complain that he does not behave like other people.

I was told once by some country people that a magician should never tell his dreams because the telling will make them come true. But I say that is great nonsense.

It is these black clothes," said Strange. "I am like a leftover piece of funeral, condemned to walk about the Town, frightening people into thinking of their own mortality.