"Come, come!" returned the doctor, "you don't know half enough about
me to tell what sort of man I should like or dislike."

"Well, all I will say more of Bascombe is, that if he were not
conceited he would be honest; and if he were as honest as he
believes himself, he would not be so ready to judge every one
dishonest who does not agree with him."

"I hope we may have another talk soon," said the doctor, searching
for a cork. "Some day I will tell you a few things that may stagger
you."

"Likely enough: I am only learning to walk yet," said Wingfold.
"But a man may stagger and not fall, and I am ready to hear anything
you choose to tell me."

Faber handed him the bottle, and he took his leave.






CHAPTER VII.

HELEN AND THE CURATE.