_I_ don't want to intrude upon your secrets.' As Mrs.Sowerberry said this, she gave an hysterical laugh, which threatened violent consequences.
'But, my dear,' said Sowerberry, 'I want to ask your advice.' 'No, no, don't ask mine,' replied Mrs.Sowerberry, in an affecting manner: 'ask somebody else's.' Here, there was another hysterical laugh, which frightened Mr.Sowerberry very much.

This is a very common and much-approved matrimonial course of treatment, which is often very effective.

It at once reduced Mr.Sowerberry to begging, as a special favour, to be allowed to say what Mrs.Sowerberry was most curious to hear.

After a short duration, the permission was most graciously conceded.
'It's only about young Twist, my dear,' said Mr.Sowerberry.

'A very good-looking boy, that, my dear.' 'He need be, for he eats enough,' observed the lady.
'There's an expression of melancholy in his face, my dear,' resumed Mr.
Sowerberry, 'which is very interesting.