I hope you will never doubt my true friendship for you; but more than sincere friendship I cannot give you.' There, Agatha, not a word more, nor a word less than that; sit quite straight on your chair, as though you were nailed to it; do not look to the right or to the left; do not frown or smile." "There will not be the least danger of my smiling, Marie." "But do not frown neither; fancy that you are the district judge, giving sentence on a knotty piece of law; show neither sentiment, pride, nor anger.

Be quite cold, inflexible and determined; and, above all things, do not move from your seat; and I think you will find your lover will take his answer: but if he do not--repeat it all over again, with a little more emphasis, and rather slower than before.

If it be necessary, you may repeat it a third time, or indeed till he goes away, but never vary the words.

He must be a most determined man if he requires the third dose.

I never heard of but one who wasn't satisfied with the second, and he was an Irishman." "If I could only insist on his sitting still and silent to hear me make my formidable speech, your advice might be very good." "That, my dear, is your own strong point: if he attempts to interrupt you, hear what he says, and then begin again.