A Country Gentleman and His Family · Chapter 9 (2/2)

“I wouldn’t have their custom, not if it was offered to me,” said Mrs. Bagley with vehemence. “And everybody knows as every single thing they have comes from Highcombe, if not London. I hope as they mayn’t find an empty nest some fine morning, and all the birds away. It would serve that nasty Molasis right, as is always taking the bread out of country folk’s mouth.”

“That’s just what I was thinking, granny,” said the girl. “If I’d gone it would have been chiefly for your sake. But since the young ladies and you are both so set against it, I can’t, and there’s an end.”

“I am sure she never meant it,” said the younger sister. “She was only just flattered for a moment, weren’t you, Lizzie? and pleased to think of someone new.”

“That’s about the fact, that is,” said the old woman. “Something new; them lasses would just give their souls for something new.”

“But Lizzie must know,” said Miss Warrender, “that her old customers would never stand it. I was going to talk about some work, and of coming up two days next week to the Warren. But if there is any idea of the⁠—other place⁠—”

“For goodness’ sake speak up and say, No, miss, there ain’t no thought of it, Lizzie!”

“Now I know you’re so strong against it, of course I can’t, and there’s an end,” said Lizzie; but she looked more angry than convinced.