of the world. “We know what Russia means, sir,” says Podsnap; “we know what France wants; we see what America is up to; but we know what England is. That’s enough for us.”
However, when dinner is served, and Lightwood drops into his old place over against Lady Tippins, she can be fended off no longer. “Long banished Robinson Crusoe,” says the charmer, exchanging salutations, “how did you leave the island?”
“Thank you,” says Lightwood. “It made no complaint of being in pain anywhere.”
“Say, how did you leave the savages?” asks Lady Tippins.
“They were becoming civilized when I left Juan Fernandez,” says Lightwood. “At least they were eating one another, which looked like it.”
“Tormentor!” returns the dear young creature. “You know what I mean, and you trifle with my impatience. Tell me something, immediately, about the married pair. You were at the wedding.”