`I am pretty well, I thank you,' answered Mr. Lorry, with meekness; `how are you?'

`Nothing to boast of,' said Miss Pross.

`Ah! indeed!' said Miss Pross. `I am very much put out about my Ladybird.'

`For gracious sake say something else besides ``indeed,'' or you'll fidget me to death,' said Miss Pross: whose character (dissociated from stature) was shortness.'

`Really, then?' said Mr. Lorry, as an amendment.

`Really, is bad enough,' returned Miss Pross, `but better. Yes, I am very much put out.'

`I don't want dozens of people who are not at all worthy of Ladybird, to come here looking after her,' said Miss Pross.

`Do dozens come for that purpose?'