"But, sir, you have been very kind to me, and it shall be the endeavor
of my life to prove my gratitude."

"Very fine, without being in the least consoling! I'd as lief have two
African monkeys under my care--don't laugh--it exasperates, and makes
me feel like doing as I should do, if I had the cursed animals--"

"How is that, sir?"

"Beat you. I hate womankind. Most of all do I hate them in their
transition stages. They are like sponges, and absorb every particle of
evil that the devil sprinkles in the air, until they learn to be young
hypocrites--triflers--false--heartless."

"Oh, dear uncle! has such been your experience? Have you ever met with
such women?"

"Have I ever met with such women, you holy innocent? I have never met
with any other. Now, be still."

"Oh! Uncle Stillinghast--"

"What!"

"I pity you, sir; indeed, I pity you. Something very dreadful must in
times past have embittered you--"

"You are a fool, little May. Don't interrupt me again at your peril."

"No, sir."