It was a good substitute for the answer expected to a difficult question.“All I know is that your father died and you took his place.”“There is little else to know. Mine has been a life like many others of my class and circumstances.”“You never married. I wonder why.”“I might reply as the English milkmaid, ” Nobody asked me, sir, she said”.”“That I find extraordinary. I am sure you would make an excellent wife for some fortunate man. Just imagine how useful you would be. His pictures would always be in perfect condition.”“What if he had none?”“I am sure you would very quickly remedy that omission.”I did not like the light turn of the conversation. I fancied he was making fun of me; and it was a subject about which, in view of my new emotions, I did not care to be mocked.“I am surprised that you should be an advocate for marriage.” As soon as I had spoken I wished I hadn’t. I flushed and stammered: “I’m sorry”He smiled, the mockery gone.“And I’m surprised that you are surprised.
