That's my manner of diffusing 'em.

I don't know where they may come down.

It's according to circumstances, and the wind, and so forth; but I take my chance of that.' His face was so very mild and pleasant, and had something so reverend in it, though it was hale and hearty, that I was not sure but that he was having a good-humoured jest with me.

So I laughed, and he laughed, and we parted the best friends possible.
'Well, child,' said my aunt, when I went downstairs.

'And what of Mr.
Dick, this morning ?' I informed her that he sent his compliments, and was getting on very well indeed.
'What do you think of him ?' said my aunt.
I had some shadowy idea of endeavouring to evade the question, by replying that I thought him a very nice gentleman; but my aunt was not to be so put off, for she laid her work down in her lap, and said, folding her hands upon it: 'Come! Your sister Betsey Trotwood would have told me what she thought of anyone, directly.