Pretty well, considerin', thank you.

Been for a stroll up Washin'ton Street, have you?
Or a little walk on the Common, maybe ?" The elaborate sarcasm of these questions was intended to be withering.
Mr.Brown, however, did not wither.

Neither did he blush.
"I have been," he said, "down at the boathouse.

I knew you were in safe hands and well looked after, so I went away.

I couldn't remain here and hear you suffer." "Hum! HEAR me suffer, hey?
Much obliged, I'm sure.