"As if I meant any harm!" continued Mr. Trim, looking low-spirited; "as if any one minded the jokes of a good-natured fellow like me!"
Mr. Smalley looked remorseful.
"Don't be afraid of me, my dear," he said to me, "I am very fond of little girls."
"Oh! I am not afraid," I replied, confidently; for he did not look as if he could hurt a fly.
Mr. Smalley brightened, and began questioning me; I answered readily. He looked surprised and said—
"You are really very well informed, my dear."
"It is Cornelius who teaches me," I replied proudly.
"Then my wonder ceases. We were all proud of your brother, Ma'am," observed Mr. Smalley, addressing Kate, "and grateful—"
"For fighting all your battles—eh, Smalley?" kindly interrupted Mr.
Trim.
Mr. Smalley coloured, but subdued the carnal man, to answer meekly—