Page:Cuthbert Bede--Little Mr Bouncer and Tales of College Life.djvu/176

156 there be any impropriety in my going and talking with her a little?"

"Certainly not," replied Dr. Dustacre. "It would be very kind of you. She is always pleased when what she calls a real gentleman or lady will converse with her. She accepts the attention as a recognition of her former social position. Of course you must be prepared to hear her talk a great deal of unconnected nonsense."

"Oh, of course! Perhaps I shall enjoy her conversation more than if she were a thoroughgoing blue stocking, who could talk like a dictionary on all sorts of subjects, from præ-Adamite formations to Shakspeare and the musical glasses."

So little Mr. Bouncer went down the hill with the benevolent intention of cheering poor Mrs. Flabby by having a chat with her.