‘Now, it’s my opinion—’ said Mr. Barton.
‘I know what you’re going to say,’ interposed Malderton, determined not to give his relation another opportunity, ‘and I don’t agree with you.’
‘What!’ inquired the astonished grocer.
‘I am sorry to differ from you, Barton,’ said the host, in as positive a manner as if he really were contradicting a position which the other had laid down, ‘but I cannot give my assent to what I consider a very monstrous proposition.’
‘But I meant to say—’
‘You never can convince me,’ said Malderton, with an air of obstinate determination. ‘Never.’
‘And I,’ said Mr. Frederick, following up his father’s attack, ‘cannot entirely agree in Mr. Sparkins’s argument.’
‘What!’ said Horatio, who became more metaphysical, and more argumentative, as he saw the female part of the family listening in wondering delight—‘what! Is effect the consequence of cause? Is cause the precursor of effect?’
‘That’s the point,’ said Flamwell.
‘To be sure,’ said Mr. Malderton.