His skimped allowance of grey beard was almost of the colour of his skin.

An ardent junker herself, Mrs. Egge tells how to conduct a fascinating junk safari into the attic or antique and secondhand shops and what to do with the trophies you bring home.

There were so many ways to answer, yet each potential response seemed out of context, inadequate. The problem with context—and any conditionals I might apply in my answer—was the high risk that Jim and Margot dismiss it all as “hedging,” as positioning myself to win the engagement.

Nay, replied Charles, gravely, this is carrying your anger too far. Allow me to mediate between you. I must entreat, nay, I command, the Lady Francesca's presence.