My Dearest Goose, Why Didn't You Trust

She Stretched Out Her Hand, Saying, “vernon! My Dear, What A Delightful Surprise!” “what’s Surprising About It?” He Enquired, Lifting His Black Brows. “didn’t You Ask Me To Come?” The Smile Remained Pinned To Lady Buxted’s Lips, But She Replied With More Than A Touch Of Acidity: “to Be Sure I Did, But So Many Days Ago That I Supposed You Had Gone Out Of Town!” “oh, No!” He Said, Returning Her Smile With One Of Great Sweetness.

I Wish You Did Return My Regard," He Said. "more Than I Have Ever Wished Anything In My Life! Perhaps You May Yet Learn To Do So: I Should Warn You That I Don't Easily Despair!

Oh, 'tis Not My Qualities They Object To! 'tis My Lack Of Vice.

[...]if You Talk Any More Flummery To Me, Frederica, I Shall Give You One Of My—er—icy Set-downs!”(alverstoke)

The Marquis Believed Himself To Be Hardened Against Flattery. He Thought That He Had Experienced Every Variety, But He Discovered That He Was Mistaken: The Blatantly Worshipful Look In The Eyes Of A Twelve-year-old, Anxiously Raised To His, Was New To Him, And It Pierced His Defences.