For I fear the failing will go with me to the grave
that I am very ready to be annoyed, even to the loss of my temper, at the
urgings of ignoble prudence.
"Good-morning, Miss Bowdler," I said.
"Good-morning, Mr. Walton," she returned "I am afraid you thought me
impertinent the other week; but you know by this time it is only my way."
"As such I take it," I answered with a smile.
She did not seem quite satisfied that I did not defend her from her own
accusation; but as it was a just one, I could not do so. Therefore she went
on to repeat the offence by way of justification.
"It was all for Mrs. Walton's sake. You ought to consider her, Mr. Walton.
She has quite enough to do with that dear Connie, who is likely to be an
invalid all her days--too much to take the trouble of a beggar's brat as
well."
"Has Mrs. Walton been complaining to you about it, Miss Bowdler?" I asked.
"O dear, no!" she answered. "She is far too good to complain of anything.
That's just why her friends must look after her a bit, Mr. Walton."
"Then I beg you won't speak disrespectfully of my little Theodora."
"O dear me! no. Not at all. I don't speak disrespectfully of her.
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