Page:Vivian Grey, Volume 1.djvu/168

 "Do you know Mr. Croker, Mr. Grey?"

"Not in the least. I look upon Mr. Croker and myself as the two sublimest men in the United Kingdom. When we do meet, the interview will be interesting."

"Pray, Mr. Grey, is it true that all the houses in Russell-square are tenantless?"

"Quite true; the Marquess of Tavistock has given up the county in consequence. A perfect shame—is it not? Let's write it up."

"An admirable plan! but we 'll take the houses first; of course we can get them at a pepper-corn rent."

"What a pity, Miss Manvers, the fashion has gone out of selling oneself to the devil."

"Good gracious, Mr. Grey!"

"On my honour, I am quite serious. It does appear to me to be a very great pity. What a capital plan for younger brothers! It's a