with reference to me. It was only the other day that an ill-tongued
house-maid of mine, after I had paid her her wages, and 'stopped' for
the articles she injured on me, turned round, and called me a skinflint;
they have made it a common nickname on me. I'd have torn her eyes out
only for Lindsay, who had the assurance to tell me that if he had not
interfered I'd have had the worst of it--that I'd come off second best,
and such slang; yes, and then added afterwards, that he was sorry he
interfered. That's the kind of a husband he is, and that's the life
I lead. Now, this property is mine, and I can leave it to any one I
please; he hasn't even a life interest in it."

"O," exclaimed the son, in surprise, "is that the case?"

"It is," she replied, "and yet you see how I am treated."

"I was not aware of that, my dear mother," responded worthy Harry. "That
alters the case entirely. Why, Lindsay, in these circumstances, ought to
put his hands under your feet; so ought they all I think. Well, my dear
mother, of one thing I can assure you, no matter how they may treat you,
calculate firmly upon my support and protection; make yourself sure
of that. But, now, about Miss Milk-and-curds--what do you think of my
project?"

"I have been frequently turning it over in my mind, Harry, since the
morning you praised her so violently, and I think, as you cannot get the
property without the girl, you must only take her with it. The notion of
its going into the hands of strangers would drive me mad."

"Well, then, we understand each other; I have your sanction for the
courtship."