about Hilary."

A pause ensued. Then Mrs. Hilary made three short remarks, which
I give in their order:

(1) "The little wretch!" (2) "Dear old Hilary!" (3) "Poor little man!"

I took my hat. I knew that Hilary was due from the city in a few
minutes. Mrs. Hilary sat down by the fire.

"How dare you torment me so?" she asked, but not in the least
like Lady Macbeth.

"I must have my little amusements," said I.

"What an audacious little creature!" said Mrs. Hilary. "Fancy
his daring!--Aren't you astounded?"

"Oh, yes, I am. But Hilary, you see--"

"It's nearly his time," said Mrs. Hilary.

I buttoned my left glove and held out my right hand.

"I've a good mind not to shake hands with you," said she.
"Wasn't it absurd of Hilary?"

"Horribly."

"He ought to have been all the more angry."