Very Affectionate
Jane hadn't been long in her new situation when her mother paid her a visit.
"And how do you like your new misus?"
"I like her," said Jane. "She's very affectionate."
"What do you mean?" asked mother.
"She called me "Dear, Dear" when I dropped a tray-ful of tea-things this afternoon," said the girl.

to pay somebody a visit - проведать кого-то
what do you mean? - что ты хочешь сказать? здесь: как ты это знаешь?
dear - 1. дорогая, любимая, милая; 2. dear me! - ox, батенька (выкрик удивления или жалос

LI 3.9.25