"We have known all along 'twas a strong attachment 'twixt my son and niece."
"Why, so I should ha' guessed," I replied.
"No, no," says uncle, shaking his silly head, "I never did believe there was aught in it. So now you know, wife."
But his wife, who was as black as night, cried out sharply,—
"'Tis all nonsense. They are affianced duly."
And then the fat grocer muttered in my ears, "'Twas precious cunning; you have noosed and caught her already. Gad, she'll fall into your maw like a ripe plum!"
"If you will not cease," said I angrily, "I will run my hilt down your throat."
"Hilt!" says he, staring, and edged away from me; and I could see him eyeing me up and down to see if I carried a weapon.
"Come," said I to the girl. "Maybe this is sprung on you too suddenly. Take your time," I said, "and we will wait. 'Tis a hundred guineas on your wedding, my dear, and much more at my funeral."
"I do not want your money," said she petulantly, and flung the guineas on the table.