I really think red would suit
me better, but, never mind, I will call again as I saw the Doctor come
in. He is rather a frequent visitor."
"Not frequent: he comes occasionally. We are both interested in a
subject which I believe is not much studied in Langborough."
"Dear me! not dressmaking?"
"No, madam, archaeology."
Mrs. Bingham went out once more discomfited, and Mrs. Fairfax returned
to the parlour.
"I am sure I am taking up too much of your time," said the Doctor, "but
I cannot tell you what a privilege it is to spend a few minutes with a
lady like yourself."
Mrs. Fairfax was silent for a minute.
"Mrs. Bingham has been here, and I think I ought to tell you that she
has made some significant remarks about you. Forgive me if I suggest
that we should partially, at any rate, discontinue our intercourse. I
should be most unhappy if your friendship with me were to do you any
harm."
The Doctor rose in a passion, planting his stick on the floor.
"When the cackling of the geese or the braying of the asses on
Langborough Common prevent my crossing it, then, and not till then, will
my course be determined by Mrs.
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