[Beatrix issues a sigh, evidently at the mercy of the dogs. If one gets a pet, then soon enough, she goes from one to the other and right on down the proverbial line.]

Grand. This dog is going to sniff out all of my secrets. [Which is probably more true than she really wants it to be. Eustace's question is rewarded with a pause before she offers him a passing glance. What a prying question.]

I am not suited for such... exchanges with others. [She explains.] Suppose someone should think to rely on me or mistakenly believe I would provide adequate companionship. You endure my presence because there are parallels betwixt us, Eustace. 'Tis a luxury many others would not share.