I was allowed to see the first trial, or preliminary rehearsal, of this work of art.

I don't in the least understand the merits of silk and lace; but one thing I know--my wife will be the most beautiful woman at the ball.
"The same day I called on Lady Janet to thank her, and encountered a new revelation of the wayward and original character of my dear old aunt.
"She was on the point of tearing up a letter when I went into her room.
Seeing me, she suspended her purpose and handed me the letter.

It was in Mercy's handwriting.

Lady Janet pointed to a passage on the last page.
'Tell your wife, with my love,' she said, 'that I am the most obstinate woman of the two.

I positively refuse to read her, as I positively refuse to listen to her, whenever she attempts to return to that one subject.