Pereg. Yes. When I first saw him (indeed, it was the first time and the last), he had just begun to adventure humbly in trade. His stock was very slender, but his neighbours accounted him a kindly man—and I know they spoke the truth. Thirty years ago, after half an hour's intercourse, which proved to me his benevolent nature, I squeezed his hand, and parted.
Dennis. Thirty years! 'Faith, after half an hour's dish of talk, that's a reasonable long time to remember!
Pereg. Not at all; for he did me a genuine service; and gratitude writes the records in the heart, that, till it ceases to beat, they may live in the memory.
Enter Mrs. Brulgruddery, with a Mug of Beer.
Mrs. Brul. [Apart to Dennis.] What have you said about the brandy bottle?
Dennis. [Apart.] I told him you broke it, one day.
Mrs. Brul. [Apart.] Ah! I am always the shelter for your sins.
Dennis. Hush!—[To Perg.] You know, sir, I—hem!—I mention'd to you poor Mrs. Brulgruddery's misfortune.
Pereg. Ha, ha! you did indeed, friend.
Mrs. Brul. I am very sorry, sir, but—