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 but every one observes what a fine figure Mr Mollins has."

"But, my dear Bell, did not Mr Mollins tell my father, that business called him immediately to England? How is it then that he contrives to spend his Christmas at Dashmore Lodge?"

"How little you know of genteel life!" cried Mrs Mollins. "Do you think that men of fashion tie themselves down to rules of going here or there to a day, as my father does? Mr Mollins ought to be sure to visit his estate in Dorsetshire this winter, but a few weeks delay can be of no consequence. And besides were he to go there at Christmas time, he must entertain all his neighbours, which, he says, would be a great bore; so he thinks it better to put it off till they have gone up to Parliament, and then he will leave me at Bath, and take a dash down by himself. But I hear the gentlemen coming in; pray don't say that I mentioned"—

At that moment the door opened; and