He, no doubt, thinks me Quixotic, and often speaks of me, and to me, with great contempt when he is angry.

I suppose he has a little fit of penitence afterwards, or perhaps he thinks he can pay for ungracious speeches by a present; so, formerly, he invariably sent me something after these occasions.
It was a time, of all others, to feel as you are doing now; but I became convinced it would be right to accept them, giving only the very cool thanks which I felt.

This omission of all show of much gratitude had the best effect--the presents have much diminished; but if the gifts have lessened, the unjustifiable speeches have decreased in still greater proportion, and I am sure we respect each other more.

Take this muslin, Ruth, for the reason I named; and thank him as your feelings prompt you.

Overstrained expressions of gratitude always seem like an endeavour to place the receiver of these expressions in the position of debtor for future favours.