"What, coz, still sitting with your things on, waiting? Haven't you been impatient?"
"Oh, no, not at all, I've been reading."
"Well, but, do you know it's twelve o'clock? We were to start at half-past ten. What did you think of me for delaying so long?"
"I was afraid some accident had happened; but I could see nothing from the window, and I did not like to go out on the portico alone."
"Then you did not think me careless, and were not vexed?"
"Not I, indeed! I was sure you would come if you could, and was only anxious about you, as you were to try that new horse. I did not take off my bonnet, because I kept expecting you every moment."
"And I kept expecting to come every moment—that devilish animal! I tried to send you word, but I could not get sight of a servant—confound the fellows! they are always out of the way when one wants them."
"But, Charley, dear, what about the horse? Has he really troubled you? I am sorry you bought him."
"Oh, I've conquered him! it wouldn't have taken me so long before I had that devilish fever! But, come, cozzy dear, will you go now, or is your patience all gone?"
"I would like the drive—but, Charley, had we not better put it off until to-morrow morning? You must be tired out, and, perhaps, the horse will continue to trouble you."