She insists, also, on presiding at all the schoolroom meals.

How she found out the state of things here I cannot tell, but I thankfully let her alone.

I never go out to smoke a cigar in the evening, and notice a stately female form stepping forth also, but Aunt Christie is sure to come briskly stumping in her wake, ready to join either her or me." "You don't mean to imply anything ?" "Of course not! but you yourself, before you married, were often known to take my arm at flower-shows, &c., in order to escape from certain poor fellows who sighed in vain." "Yes, you were good about that; and you remind me of it, no doubt, in order to claim the like friendliness from me now the tables are turned.
John, the next time I take your arm in public it will be to extend my matronly countenance to those modest efforts of yours at escaping attention, for you know yourself to be quite unworthy of notice!" "Just so; you express my precise feeling." "It is a pity you and Grand are so rich!" "Why?
You do not insinuate, I hope, that I and my seven are merely eligible on that account.

Now, what are you looking at me for, with that little twist in your lips that always means mischief ?" "Because I like you, and I am afraid you are being spoilt, John.

I do so wish you had a nice wife.