settle how I shall pay Hindley back. I don't care how long I wait,
if I can only do it at last. I hope he will not die before I do!'

'For shame, Heathcliff!' said I. 'It is for God to punish wicked
people; we should learn to forgive.'

'No, God won't have the satisfaction that I shall,' he returned.
'I only wish I knew the best way! Let me alone, and I'll plan it
out: while I'm thinking of that I don't feel pain.'

'But, Mr. Lockwood, I forget these tales cannot divert you. I'm
annoyed how I should dream of chattering on at such a rate; and
your gruel cold, and you nodding for bed! I could have told
Heathcliff's history, all that you need hear, in half a dozen
words.'


Thus interrupting herself, the housekeeper rose, and proceeded to
lay aside her sewing; but I felt incapable of moving from the
hearth, and I was very far from nodding. 'Sit still, Mrs. Dean,' I
cried; 'do sit still another half-hour. You've done just right to
tell the story leisurely. That is the method I like; and you must
finish it in the same style. I am interested in every character
you have mentioned, more or less.'

'The clock is on the stroke of eleven, sir.'

'No matter - I'm not accustomed to go to bed in the long hours.
One or two is early enough for a person who lies till ten.'