But there was a vacuum--that I quite admit--and Nature--or Providence--disliked it.

So she sent you along, my dear lady!'-- he turned upon her a glowing countenance--'and you fitted it exactly.

You laid hands on what has proved to be your job, and Chicksands, I expect, has been telling you how marvellously you're doing it, and begging you not to let this duffer'-- the Squire pointed to his leather waistcoat--'get hold of it again.

Hasn't he ?' He smiled triumphantly, as Elizabeth's sudden flush showed that his shaft had hit.

But he would not let her speak.
'No--please don't interrupt me! Of course Chicksands took that view.
Any sensible man would--not that Henry is really a sensible man.
Well, now, then--I want to ask you this.