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 much on acquaintance, and was a thorough gentleman. To which Miss Monteneros made the obvious Shakespearian reply that "T'was never merry world since gentlemen came up," and that she thought the general merriment of the world would not be increased by this particular gentleman.

"At all events," said the Baroness, with a sweet smile which was slightly forced, "he shows good taste in one respect, I shan't say what. I should like to show some civility to his relations, Rachel; but owing to one or two little contretemps, little mistakes that I made in my giddy way, I hardly know what to do."

"Or to undo," said Rachel, "for the interview with Mrs. Hopkinson and the note that followed are des faits accomplis. But, Aunt, as you don't want to have the Hopkinsons at your parties, and they don't want to come, why not let things remain as they are?"

"For a thousand reasons," said the Baroness, pettishly. "It would be a great