“Hah! Better employed than to attend to it,” said Mr. Boffin. “That’s right, that’s right. Especially as you have no call to be told how to value yourself, my dear.”

Colouring a little under this compliment, Bella returned, “I hope sir, you don’t think me vain?”

“Not a bit, my dear,” said Mr. Boffin. “But I think it’s very creditable in you, at your age, to be so well up with the pace of the world, and to know what to go in for. You are right. Go in for money, my love. Money’s the article. You’ll make money of your good looks, and of the money Mrs. Boffin and me will have the pleasure of settling upon you, and you’ll live and die rich. That’s the state to live and die in!” said Mr. Boffin, in an unctuous manner. “R⁠—r⁠—rich!”