He was afraid of flattering you and making you unfit for your work.

But if he said nothing, depend upon it he was pleased." "Thank you, Princess," said my father.

"I think he was well enough pleased." Just then there came a noise that I knew--a sound which chilled every bone in my body.
It was the clear ring of a steady footstep upon the pavement without.

It came heavily and slowly across the yard.

The outer hasp of our door clicked.