Snippet #2458048

"It's hardly stingy, Miss Eliza. I understand that the state of one's home is a reflection on them. If this were my estate and not my book shop, I think I would have been much more reluctant to entertain company." He gave Eliza a knowing look, then turned back to the papers on his desk. "Good morrow, Carrolls all, and thank you again for the pleasure of your company."

As soon as the large party departed, Professor Wolfinson flipped the shop sign to closed and went upstairs to change into some moderately formal dinner attire.