“And have you been home?”
“No, not yet; I thought I would come and spend the evening with you.”
“With me! Why, that’s something new; I don’t suppose you intend to court me, do you, as the doctor does?”
“No, but I wish that you would give me some tea in your little back parlour, and let Jane mind the shop in the meantime.”
“Jane’s very busy, Mr Tom, so I’m afraid that I can’t oblige you.”
“But you must, Mrs St. Felix. I’m determined I will not leave this house till you give me some tea; I want to have a long talk with you.”
“Why, what’s in the wind now?”
“I’m not in the wind, at all events, for you see I’m perfectly sober; indeed, Mrs St. Felix, I ask it as a particular favour. You have done me many kindnesses, now do oblige me this time: the fact is, something has happened to me of the greatest importance, and I must have your advice how to act; and, in this instance, I prefer yours to that of any other person.”
“Well, Tom, if it really is serious, and you wish to consult me, for such a compliment the least I can do is to give you a cup of tea.” Mrs St. Felix ordered Jane to take the tea-things into the back parlour, and then to attend in the shop.
“And pray say that you are not at home, even to the doctor.”