And like every woman who has ever preached repentance to unregenerate youth, she dwelt on the sin of an empty life, which always seems so much more scandalous in the country, where people rise early to see if a new strawberry has happened during the night.
Hector Hugh Munro (Saki)
I suspect this character is based on one of the puritanical Victorian aunts he had to live with as a child. I’m sure some delightfully ironic hilarity is about to ensue.
I found an excellent website with his biography and free access to most of his writings, here:
Saki (H.H. Munro) — 148 Short Stories Free Online
Thanks for the link Ed. I’ve only ever read one of his stories (Tobermory) so it will give me a chance to sample some more. I’ve always especially enjoyed good short stories.