“Yes, sir,” returned Mrs. Sparsit, with a meek shake of her head, “he certainly did so. Though I do not mean to say but that my feelings may be weaker on such points⁠—more foolish if the term is preferred⁠—than they might have been, if I had always occupied my present position.”

Mr. Bounderby stared with a bursting pride at Mr. Harthouse, as much as to say, “I am the proprietor of this female, and she’s worth your attention, I think.” Then, resumed his discourse.