After chatting some time on such matters as naturally arose from the objects around them, he suddenly addressed her with—“I have hitherto been very remiss, madam, in the proper attentions of a partner here; I have not yet asked you how long you have been in Bath; whether you were ever here before; whether you have been at the Upper Rooms, the theatre, and the concert; and how you like the place altogether. I have been very negligent—but are you now at leisure to satisfy me in these particulars? If you are I will begin directly.” 

 “You need not give yourself that trouble, sir.” 

 “No trouble, I assure you, madam.” Then forming his features into a set smile, and affectedly softening his voice, he added, with a simpering air, “Have you been long in Bath, madam?” 

 “About a week, sir,” replied Catherine, trying not to laugh. 

 “Really!” with affected astonishment. 

 “Why should you be surprised, sir?” 

 “Why, indeed!” said he, in his natural tone. “But some emotion must appear to be raised by your reply, and surprise is more easily assumed, and not less reasonable than any other. Now let us go on. Were you never here before, madam?” 

 “Never, sir.” 

 “Indeed! Have you yet honoured the Upper Rooms?” 

 “Yes, sir, I was there last Monday.” 

 “Have you been to the theatre?” 

 “Yes, sir, I was at the play on Tuesday.” 

 “To the concert?” 

 “Yes, sir, on Wednesday.” 

 “And are you altogether pleased with Bath?” 

 “Yes—I like it very well.” 

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