Before we condemn him, uncle, let us see for ourselves.

It is a habit you have always recommended to me, you know." "You can not deny, niece," said the old man with irritation, "that he exhales the most decided and disagreeable odor of Paris! He is too polite--too studied! Not a shadow of enthusiasm--no fire of youth! He never laughs as I should wish to see a man of his age laugh; a young man should roar to split his waistband!" "What! you would see him merry so soon after losing his father in such a tragic manner, and he himself nearly ruined! Why, uncle, what can you mean ?" "Well, well, perhaps you are right.

I retract all I have said against him.

If he be half ruined I will offer him my advice--and my purse if he need it--for the sake of the memory of his mother, whom you resemble.
Ah, 'tis thus we end all our disputes, naughty child! I grumble; I am passionate; I act like a Tartar.

Then you speak with your good sense and sweetness, my darling, and the tiger becomes a lamb.