"I am not so young as you, my dear; and, though my life has looked smooth enough outside; there has been a good deal of trouble in it.

In truth,"-- he added, "I have had some vexatious things perplexing me today, which must excuse my being so dull and disagreeable." "Disagreeable!" echoed Christian, with a little forced sort of laugh, adding, in a strange, soft shyness, "I wish you would tell me what those vexatious things were.

I know I am young, and foolish enough too; still, if I could help you--" "Help me!" He looked at her eagerly, then shook his head and sighed.
"No, my child, you can not help me.

It is other people's business, which I am afraid I have no right to tell even to you.

It is only that a person has come back to Avonsbridge, who, if I could suppose I had an enemy in the world--But here I am telling you." "Never mind, you shall tell me no more," said Christian, cheerily, "especially as I do not believe that in the wide world you could have an enemy.