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Rh the mistress of the house entered the room. ‘My dear,’ she said, ‘I didn’t know that you were engaged.’

‘Yes, I am engaged,’ said the gentleman.

‘Oh, I’m sure I beg pardon. Perhaps this is the gentleman from Hamworth?’

‘Yes, ma’am,’ said Mr. Dockwrath. ‘I am the gentleman from Hamworth. I hope I have the pleasure of seeing you very well, ma’am?’ And getting up from his chair he bowed politely.

‘Mr. Dockwrath, Mrs. Mason,’ said the lady’s husband, introducing them; and then Mrs. Mason curtsied to the stranger. She too was very anxious to know what might be the news from Hamworth.

‘Mr. Dockwrath will lunch with us, my dear,’ said Mr. Mason. And then the lady, on hospitable cares intent, left them again to themselves.