And 'Gonderil,' -- I assure you it is the most splendid book I ever read.

I know you will like these books, ma'm, because I've read them myself and I know what they are." "Oh, I was perplexed--but I see how it is, now.

You must have thought I asked you to tell me what sort of books I wanted--for I am apt to say things which I don't really mean, when I am absent minded.

I suppose I did ask you, didn't I ?" "No ma'm,--but I--" "Yes, I must have done it, else you would not have offered your services, for fear it might be rude.

But don't be troubled--it was all my fault.
I ought not to have been so heedless--I ought not to have asked you." "But you didn't ask me, ma'm.