“My dear, why not?”

“Oh I know all about myself,” said Miss Podsnap.

“I’ll tell you something I know about you, my dear,” returned Mrs. Lammle in her winning way, “and that is, you are most unnecessarily shy.”

“Ma ain’t,” said Miss Podsnap. “⁠—I detest you! Go along!” This shot was levelled under her breath at the gallant Grompus for bestowing an insinuating smile upon her in passing.

“Pardon me if I scarcely see, my dear Miss Podsnap,” Mrs. Lammle was beginning when the young lady interposed.