"Do you think it is a compliment to tell you that Mr.Short probably enjoys your conversation much more than the study of Greek roots ?" "Well--not exactly--" "Besides, in general," continued the squire, "compliments are mere waste of breath.

If a woman has any vanity she knows her own good points much better than any man who attempts to explain them to her; and if she has no vanity, no amount of explanation of her merits will make her see them in a proper light." "That is very true," answered Mrs.Goddard, thoughtfully.

"It never struck me before.

I wonder whether that is the reason women always like men who never make any compliments at all ?" The squire's face assumed an amusing expression of inquiry and surprise.
"Is that personal ?" he asked.
"Oh--of course not," answered Mrs.Goddard in some confusion.

She blushed and turning towards the fire took up the poker and pretended to stir the coals.