My father had left his heritage--a heritage far different from that which he went forth to win; but I accepted it nevertheless.

Had they known, in heaven, the full extent of that inheritance, would they not, as I kissed their dead lips in token of my acceptance, have given some sign to stay me?
Had I known, as I bent over them, to what the oath in my heart would bring me, would I even then have renounced it?
I cannot say.

The dead lips were silent, and only the dead know what will be.
Uncle Loveday was already at table when I descended.

But small was our pretence of eating.

Mrs.Busvargus, it is true, had lost no appetite through sorrow; but Mrs.Busvargus was accustomed to such scenes, and in her calling treated Death with no more to-do than she would a fresh customer at her husband's inn.