For, of course, I knew what a churl I was compared to her birth and appearance; but meanwhile I might improve myself and learn a musical instrument.

"The wind hath a draw after flying straw" is a saying we have in Devonshire, made, peradventure, by somebody who had seen the ways of women.
"Mistress Lorna, I will depart"-- mark you, I thought that a powerful word--"in fear of causing disquiet.

If any rogue shot me it would grieve you; I make bold to say it, and it would be the death of mother.

Few mothers have such a son as me.

Try to think of me now and then, and I will bring you some new-laid eggs, for our young blue hen is beginning." "I thank you heartily," said Lorna; "but you need not come to see me.
You can put them in my little bower, where I am almost always--I mean whither daily I repair to read and to be away from them." "Only show me where it is.