The long table was full , and every one intent on getting their dinner , the gentlemen especially , who seemed to be eating on time , for they bolted in every sense of the word , vanishing as soon as they were done . There was the usual assortment of young men absorbed in themselves , young couples absorbed in each other , married ladies in their babies , and old gentlemen in politics . I do n't think I shall care to have much to do with any of them , except one sweetfaced maiden lady , who looks as if she had something in her . Cast away at the very bottom of the table was the Professor , shouting answers to the questions of a very inquisitive , deaf old gentleman on one side , and talking philosophy with a Frenchman on the other . If Amy had been here , she 'd have turned her back on him forever because , sad to relate , he had a great appetite , and shoveled in his dinner in a manner which would have horrified ` her ladyship ' . I did n't mind , for I like ` to see folks eat with a relish ' , as Hannah says , and the poor man must have needed a deal of food after teaching idiots all day . As I went upstairs after dinner , two of the young men were settling their hats before the hall mirror , and I heard one say low to the other , `` Who 's the new party ? '' `` Governess , or something of that sort . '' `` What the deuce is she at our table for ? '' `` Friend of the old lady 's . '' `` Handsome head , but no style . '' `` Not a bit of it . Give us a light and come on . '' I felt angry at first , and then I did n't care , for a governess is as good as a clerk , and I 've got sense , if I have n't style , which is more than some people have , judging from the remarks of the elegant beings who clattered away , smoking like bad chimneys . I hate ordinary people ! Thursday Yesterday was a quiet day spent in teaching , sewing , and writing in my little room , which is very cozy , with a light and fire . I picked up a few bits of news and was introduced to the Professor . It seems that Tina is the child of the Frenchwoman who does the fine ironing in the laundry here . The little thing has lost her heart to Mr. Bhaer , and follows him about the house like a dog whenever he is at home , which delights him , as he is very fond of children , though a ` bacheldore ' . Kitty and Minnie Kirke likewise regard him with affection , and tell all sorts of stories about the plays he invents , the presents he brings , and the splendid tales he tells .
The younger XXXXX quiz him , it seems , call him Old Fritz , Lager Beer , Ursa Major , and make all manner of jokes on his name .
assortment chimneys folks gentlemen men people questions thing time word