[Mary Anerley by R. D. Blackmore]@TWC D-Link book
Mary Anerley

CHAPTER IX
16/19

But if you wish to hear the story of that young man, so far as known, which is not so even in Flamborough, you must please to come on Sunday, Sir; for Sunday is the only day that I can spare for clacking, as the common people say.

I must be off now; I have fifty things to see to.

And on Sunday my master has his best things on, and loves no better than to sit with his legs up, and a long clay pipe lying on him down below his waist (or, to speak more correctly, where it used to be, as he might, indeed, almost say the very same to me), and then not to speak a word, but hear other folk tell stories, that might not have made such a dinner as himself.

And as for dinner, Sir, if you will do the honor to dine with them that are no more than in the Volunteers, a saddle of good mutton fit for the Body-Guards to ride upon, the men with the skins around them all turned up, will be ready just at one o'clock, if the parson lets us out." "My dear madam, I shall scarcely care to look at any slice of victuals until one o'clock on Sunday, by reason of looking forward." After all, this was not such a gross exaggeration, Anerley Farm being famous for its cheer; whereas the poor lieutenant, at the best of times, had as much as he could do to make both ends meet; and his wife, though a wonderful manager, could give him no better than coarse bread, and almost coarser meat.
"And, Sir, if your good lady would oblige us also--" "No, madam, no!" he cried, with vigorous decision, having found many festive occasions spoiled by excess of loving vigilance; "we thank you most truly; but I must say 'no.' She would jump at the chance; but a husband must consider.

You may have heard it mentioned that the Lord is now considering about the production of an eighth little Carroway." "Captain, I have not, or I should not so have spoken.


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