When they entered the parlor he said to the alert Jacob, "Ask your father to come, and tell Sarah to mind the shop. My friend has something to say," he continued, turning to the elder Mrs. Cohen. It seemed part of Mordecai's eccentricity that he should call this gentleman his friend; and the two women tried to show their better manners by warm politeness in begging Deronda to seat himself in the best place.

When they entered the parlour he said to the alert Jacob, "Ask your father to come. My friend has something to say," he continued, turning to the elder Mrs. Cohen. The two women politely begged Deronda to seat himself in the best place