As for these fits of gloom, they may be constitutional; you know my mother has them, and won't speak to one of us sometimes for whole days together.

It is possible that some quarrel or misunderstanding may have taken place between him and his uncle; but how do you know that his silence on the subject does not proceed from delicacy towards that relative ?" "Well, it may be so; and it is a very kind and generous interpretation which you give of it, Charley.

Let that part of the subject pass, then; but, again, regarding this marriage.

The principle upon which he and his mother are proceeding is selfish, heartless, and perfidious in the highest degree; and d---- me if I think it would be honorable in me to stand by and see such a villainous game played against so excellent a family--against so lovely and so admirable a girl as Alice Goodwin.

It is a union between the kite and the dove, Charley, and it would be base and cowardly in me to see such a union accomplished." "Father," said Charles, "in this matter will you be guided by me?
If Alice herself is a consenting party to the match, you have, in my opinion, no right to interfere, at least with her affections.