My sister Ursula would be very willing to oblige him in many things, but he will not ask for anything, except for such a favour as a word, which is a poor favour after all.

I don't mean for her word; perhaps he will some day ask you for your word.

If so--" "Why, here you are, after railing at me for catching at words, catching at a word yourself," said Mr.Petulengro.
"Hold your tongue, sir," said Mrs.Petulengro.

"Don't interrupt me in my discourse; if I caught at a word now, I am not in the habit of doing so.
I am no conceited body; no newspaper Neddy; no pothouse witty person.

I was about to say, madam, that if the young rye asks you at any time for your word, you will do as you deem convenient; but I am sure you will oblige him by allowing me to braid your hair." "I shall not do it to oblige him," said Belle; "the young rye, as you call him, is nothing to me." "Well, then, to oblige me," said Mrs.Petulengro; "do allow me to become your poor tire-woman." "It is great nonsense," said Belle, reddening; "however, as you came to see me, and ask the matter as a particular favour to yourself--" "Thank you, madam," said Mrs.Petulengro, leading Belle to the stool; "please to sit down here.