You must admit it was a natural thought.

And no man likes to boast of a favour beforehand." "But, heavens and earth! how do you know I think it a favour ?" I cried.
He became immediately plunged in despair.

"You think it a liberty," said he; "I see that.

I would rather have cut off my hand.

I would stop it now, only it's too late; it's published by now.