Will you go with me to Wells, ma'am, or will you not?' 'Yes, sir,' said Abby meekly. 'If you are quite sure you wouldn't prefer Miss Butterbank's company to mine!' The carriage had drawn up in front of her house. Mr Calverleigh, alighting from it, and turning to hand her down, said: 'I should, of course, but having already invited you I feel it would be uncivil to fob you off.' 'Piqued, repiqued, and capoted!' said Abby, acknowledging defeat.
In this scene from Georgette Heyer's "Black Sheep," the interaction between Mr. Calverleigh and Abby highlights a humorous and playful dynamic. Abby, feeling slightly insecure about her worthiness compared to Miss Butterbank, is still willing to accompany Mr. Calverleigh. His response shows a blend of courtesy and teasing, as he playfully suggests that inviting her already obliges him to follow through.
Abby's witty remark, "Piqued, repiqued, and capoted!" demonstrates her acceptance...
