May I ask why ?" "To tell 'ee the truth, young man," said Prudy, "'twas a case of 'talk of the devil an' you'll see his horns.'" "Indeed.

You were speaking good of me, I hope." "Which o' your ears is burning ?" "Both." "Then it shu'd be the left ear only.

Old Zeb, here--" "Hush 'ee now, Prudy!" implored the crowder.
"-- Old Zeb here," continued Prudy, relentlessly, "was only a-sayin', as you walked in, that he'd read you the Riot Act afore you was many days older.

He's mighty fierce wi' your goin's on, I 'sure 'ee." "Is that so, Mr.Minards ?" Mr.Minards had, it is probable, never felt so uncomfortable in all his born days, and the experience of standing between two fires was new to him.

He looked from the stranger around upon the company, and was met on all hands by the same expectant stare.
"Well, you see--" he began, and looked around again.