If I get into mischief, it will not be because I don't perspire for so many hours every day, but simply because it is human to err.

I have no intention whatever of getting into mischief.' The speaker stroked his beard, and smiled with a distant look.
'Your purpose is intensely selfish, and all indulged selfishness reacts on the character,' replied Miss Barfoot, still in a tone of the friendliest criticism.
'My dear cousin, for anything to be selfish, it must be a deliberate refusal of what one believes to be duty.

I don't admit that I am neglecting any duty to others, and the duty to myself seems very clear indeed.' 'Of _that_ I have no doubt,' exclaimed the other, laughing.

'I see that you have refined your arguments.' 'Not my arguments only, I hope,' said Everard modestly.

'My time has been very ill spent if I haven't in some degree, refined my nature.' 'That sounds very well, Everard.