“It has not been a fortunate name for me,” said Bella, colouring⁠—“or at least it was not, until it led to my being here⁠—but that is not the point in my thoughts. As we had given the name to the poor child, and as the poor child took so lovingly to me, I think I should feel jealous of calling another child by it. I think I should feel as if the name had become endeared to me, and I had no right to use it so.”

“And that’s your opinion?” remarked Mr. Boffin, observant of the Secretary’s face and again addressing him.

“I say again, it is a matter of feeling,” returned the Secretary. “I think Miss Wilfer’s feeling very womanly and pretty.”

“Now, give us your opinion, Noddy,” said Mrs. Boffin.

“My opinion, old lady,” returned the Golden Dustman, “is your opinion.”