[The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte]@TWC D-Link bookThe Tenant of Wildfell Hall CHAPTER XX 3/11
My father, you know, was something of a miser, and in his latter days especially saw no pleasure in life but to amass riches; and so it is no wonder that his son should make it his chief delight to spend them, which was accordingly the case, until my acquaintance with you, dear Helen, taught me other views and nobler aims.
And the very idea of having you to care for under my roof would force me to moderate my expenses and live like a Christian--not to speak of all the prudence and virtue you would instil into my mind by your wise counsels and sweet, attractive goodness.' 'But it is not that,' said I; 'it is not money my aunt thinks about.
She knows better than to value worldly wealth above its price.' 'What is it, then ?' 'She wishes me to--to marry none but a really good man.' 'What, a man of "decided piety" ?--ahem!--Well, come, I'll manage that too! It's Sunday to-day, isn't it? I'll go to church morning, afternoon, and evening, and comport myself in such a godly sort that she shall regard me with admiration and sisterly love, as a brand plucked from the burning.
I'll come home sighing like a furnace, and full of the savour and unction of dear Mr.Blatant's discourse--' 'Mr.Leighton,' said I, dryly. 'Is Mr.Leighton a "sweet preacher," Helen--a "dear, delightful, heavenly-minded man" ?' 'He is a good man, Mr.Huntingdon.
I wish I could say half as much for you.' 'Oh, I forgot, you are a saint, too.
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