much dignity and correctness, that he felt himself rebuked. To be
encountered by an unsophisticated boy, and foiled, though but for
an instant--slightly estimated, though but by a youth, and him
too, a mere rustic--was mortifying to the self-esteem that rather
precipitately hurried to resent it."

"You take it seriously, Mr. Hinkley. But surely an offer of service
need not be mistaken. As for the trifling difference which may be
in our years, that is perhaps nothing to the difference which may
be in our experience, our knowledge of the world, our opportunities
and studies."

"Surely, sir; all thece MAY be, but at all events we are not bound
to assume their existence until it is shown."

"Oh, you are likely to prove an adept in the law, Mr. Hinkley."

"I trust, sir, that your progress may be as great in the church."

"Ha!--do I understand you? There is war between us then?" said
Stevens, watching the animated and speaking countenance of William
Hinkley with increasing curiosity.

"Ay, sir--there is!" was the spirited reply of the youth. "Let it
be war; I am the better pleased, sir, that you are the first to
proclaim it."

"Very good," said Stevens, "be it so, if you will. At all events
you can have no objection to say why it should be so."