"Suppose I were to tell you that I am the lawyer who is to build the handsome residence."
"I should feel honored by your confidence, and unreservedly put my trust in your motives, because they are yours."
"But you are not surprised?"
"Rather deeply interested, and no less solicitous."
"Why solicitous?"
"Because of the incongruity you present as a resident of Easthampton. That little town is not merely the sepulchre of Eliphalet Claghorn, but the grave of mirth and the social graces. Can I contemplate the possibility of your interment without sorrow?"
The gentleman's tone had lapsed into tenderness; the lady smiled. "I believe you have not seen the place for many years," she said.
"Nothing has prevented my doing so except my recollection of its attractions."
"The ground I intend for a residence," said the lady, "has great natural advantages. It faces the ocean, has noble trees——"
"And crags and boulders, a most desolate spot."