The subject was a dry one, and quite unsuited to Dr.Spenser, whose heart was set on maintaining a reputation for caustic wit.

He cast about for an illustration which would at once make clear the distinction and enliven his lecture.

His eye lit upon Hyacinth, upon whose cheek there still burned a long red scar.

Dr.
Spenser's face brightened.
'For instance, gentlemen,' he said, 'if I should reason from the fact that our friend Mr.Conneally affects the society of certain charming ladies of doubtful reputation, like Miss Goold, to the conclusion that Mr.Conneally is himself a Nationalist, I should only have arrived at a probable conclusion.

The degree of probability might be very high; still, I should have no right to regard my conclusion as absolutely certain.' The class tittered delightedly.