From the fact that there were books of a sentimental and poetical tenor amongst the religious works ranged at mathematically correct distances upon the dark green table-cover--from the presence of three twittering canaries in a large brass cage--from the evidence of a stuffed Blenheim spaniel, with intensely brown eyes, reclining on a crimson velvet cushion under a glass shade--I opined that Miss Judson's piety was pleasantly leavened by sentiment, and that her Wesleyanism was agreeably tempered by that womanly tenderness which, failing more legitimate outlets, will waste itself upon twittering canaries and plethoric spaniels.
I was not mistaken.

Miss Judson appeared presently, followed by the servant bearing a tray of cake and wine.

This was the first occasion on which I had been offered refreshment by any person to whom I had presented myself.

I argued, therefore, that Miss Judson was the weakest person with whom I had yet had to deal; and I flattered myself with the hope that from Miss Judson's amiable weakness, sentimentality, and womanly tenderness, I should obtain better aid than from more business-like and practical people.
I fancied that with this lady it would be necessary to adopt a certain air of candour.

I therefore did not conceal from her the fact that my business had something to do with that Haygarthian fortune awaiting a claimant.
"The person for whom you are concerned is not Mr.Theodore Judson ?" she asked, with some asperity.
I assured her that I had never seen Theodore Judson, and that I was in no manner interested in his success.
"In that case I shall be happy to assist you as far as lies in my power; but I can do nothing to advance the interests of Theodore Judson junior.