He rather thought the rat was alive; and, taking the tongs, he received the beast at a safe distance, while Tom saw a smile of contempt pass over the young curate's features.
"You'd make a good missionary, Sanders," said he; and, turning to Troubridge, continued, "Pray excuse this interlude, sir.

You don't look as if you would refuse to shake me by my ratty hand." Tom thought he would sooner shake hands with him than fight him, and was so won by Maberly's manner, that he was just going to say so, when he recollected the presence he was in, and blushed scarlet.
"My dear Frank," resumed his uncle, "Mr.Thornton of Drumston is taken suddenly ill, and I want you to go over and do his duties for him till he is better." "Most certainly, my dear lord; and when shall I go ?" "Say to-morrow; will that suit your household, sir ?" said the Bishop.
Tom replied, "Yes, certainly," and took his leave.

Then the Bishop, turning to Frank, said,-- "The living of Drumston, nephew, is in my gift; and if Mr.Thornton does not recover, as is very possible, I shall give it to you.

I wish you, therefore, to go to Drumston, and become acquainted with your future parishioners.

You will find Miss Thornton a most charming old lady." Frank Maberly was the second son of a country gentleman of good property, and was a very remarkable character.