And, in applying the term to his friend, Thames meant to pay him a high compliment.

And so Winifred understood him.
"Well," she said, in reply, "I may have done Jack an injustice.

I'll try to think better of him in future." "And, if you want an additional inducement to do so, I can tell you there's no one--not even his mother--whom he loves so well as you." "Loves!" echoed Winifred, slightly colouring.
"Yes, loves, Winny.

Poor fellow! he sometimes indulges the hope of marrying you, when he grows old enough." "Thames!" "Have I said anything to offend you ?" "Oh! no.

But if you wouldn't have me positively dislike Jack Sheppard, you'll never mention such a subject again.