You have got into such a trick of making fun of people, that, for the life of me, I can't be sorry that the lad has turned the tables so handsomely upon you." "You would no doubt have enjoyed the scene with far more satisfaction, had the fellow's shot taken its full effect on my skull--since, besides the failure of our object, you have such cause of merriment in what has been done.

If I did go something too much ahead in the matter, it is but simple justice to say you were quite as much aback." "Perhaps so, Guy; but the fact is, I was right and you wrong, and the thing's beyond dispute.

This lesson, though a rough one, will do you service; and a few more such will perhaps cure you of that vile trick you have of spoiling not only your own, but the sport of others, by running your head into unnecessary danger; and since this youth, who got out of the scrape so handsomely, has beat you at your own game, it may cure you of that cursed itch for tongue-trifling, upon which you so much pride yourself.

'Twould have done, and it did very well at the county sessions, in getting men out of the wood; but as you have commenced a new business entirely, it's but well to leave off the old, particularly as it's now your policy to get them into it." "I shall talk as I please, Munro, and see not why, and care not whether, my talk offends you or not.

I parleyed with the youth only to keep him in play until your plans could be put in operation." "Very good--that was all very well, Guy--and had you kept to your intention, the thing would have done.