Page:The Wanderer (1814 Volume 2).pdf/146

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were silently marked by Lady Kendover; and drew from Lady Barbara the most affectionate enquiries whether she were indisposed; the Miss Crawleys, who heard all that passed with their customary search of mirth, whether flowing from the ridiculous, the singular, or the mischievous, now clamourously demanded what Mrs. Maple meant, by the double face, the blacks, and the whites.

"Oh, no matter," answered Mrs. Maple, stammering; "'tis not a thing worth talking of."

"But the blacks—and the whites—and the double face?" cried Miss Crawley.

"Ay, the double face, the blacks, and the whites?" cried Miss Di.

"The blacks," said Mr. Riley, "I understand well enough; but I remember nothing about the double face. Surely the Demoiselle could not hodge-podge herself into one of the whites? What do you mean by all that, Ma'am?"

"Pray ask me nothing about the matter," replied Mrs. Maple, impa-