H---- determined, to speak
figuratively--to stand silently in that corner the entire day rather
than to acknowledge himself conquered.
That was, at least, one point gained, towards his emancipation. It
cannot but be supposed, however, that, if the lecture had been upon any
other subject less trivial than the mere act of sleeping, Mr. H----
would have undoubtedly acted in an entirely different manner. At least
that is the only excuse we can find for his conduct on this occasion.
"Well," said Mistress Ulrica, straightening herself up in her seat with
the utmost dignity, "upon my honor, Mr. H----, you are a _very_
agreeable companion."
"I am obliged to be careful while driving."
"Is it necessary that you should sit there as dumb as a fence post?"
No reply.
"Well, I must say that your sulkiness is not to be envied. Suppose some
one should see us--I mean you--why they would readily believe that your
wife was an old woman."
"Now, now, my dear Ulrique Eugenie, don't--"
"Your dear Ulrique Eugenie is not yet thirty eight years old, and even
though you are two years younger, I do not think that should make any
difference.
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