"I shall not exert myself in the least to entertain you, so you need
not expect it; for having very politely told me you did not desire my
company, I shall not disturb you with my chatter, I promise you, and
take this opportunity to inform you that my tympanums are at your
service the remainder of the day."

He glanced over his shoulder at the frail form nearly buried beneath
the weight of shawls and cloaks wrapt about her. She smiled, and laid
her head on her arm: as she did so, he, looking at her, failed to
perceive a large stone in the track, and the wheels passing directly
over it caused the wagon to jolt most unmercifully.

Florence was just in the rear, and, unable to control her mirth,
laughed outright as Frank and Mary bounced up and down; and, riding up
to them, merrily asked "if Mary duly appreciated her good fortune in
having so careful and scientific a driver?"

Not a little amused, yet scarce able to laugh, the latter replied that
"she did indeed congratulate herself on the change of drivers, as she
would not have survived the day had it been otherwise."

Frank joined heartily in their merriment.

"Miss Hamilton," said he, "if you only knew what caused me to overlook
that unfortunate stone, you would be more lenient in your criticisms."

"I am very sure you will adduce every possible reason in your own
favor, sir, and therefore feel no sympathy for your carelessness," she
retorted.