Volumnia

“in anger, Junolike.” [Br. Lit.: Coriolanus]

Volumnia

magisterial mother of Coriolanus; molds his character. [Br. Lit.: Coriolanus]

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Of these, foremost in the front rank stands Volumnia Dedlock, a young lady (of sixty) who is doubly highly related, having the honour to be a poor relation, by the mother's side, to another great family.

In any country in a wholesome state, Volumnia would be a clear case for the pension list.

Volumnia, as one of the more privileged cousins, in a luxurious chair between them.

"I occasionally meet on my staircase here," drawls Volumnia, whose thoughts perhaps are already hopping up it to bed, after a long evening of very desultory talk, "one of the prettiest girls, I think, that I ever saw in my life."

A dolly sort of beauty perhaps," says Miss Volumnia, reserving her own sort, "but in its way, perfect; such bloom I never saw!"

"You like to have her about you, as you would like to have a flower, or a bird, or a picture, or a poodle--no, not a poodle, though--or anything else that was equally pretty?" says Volumnia, sympathizing.

So he says, "You are right, Volumnia," which Volumnia is extremely glad to hear.

My Lady, whose chronic malady of boredom has been sadly aggravated by Volumnia this evening, glances wearily towards the candlesticks and heaves a noiseless sigh.

Good gracious, what is the man?" exclaims Volumnia.

Miss Volumnia rising with a look candlestick-wards, Sir Leicester politely performs the grand tour of the drawing-room, brings one, and lights it at my Lady's shaded lamp.

Miss Volumnia with a third little scream takes flight, wishing her hosts--O Lud!--well rid of the--what is it?--ironmaster!

Volumnia is away next day, and all the cousins are scattered before dinner.

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