But still, he seemed to hate to speak; and wise, cautious conservatism, and gentlemanly dignity, was wrote down on his linement. Even the red rosebud in his button-hole looked dretful good-natured, but close-mouthed.
I don't know as he would have spoke at all agin, if I hadn't uttered once more them soul-harrowin' words, “Would you dast?”
Pity and good feelin' then seemed to overpower for a moment the statesman and courteous diplomat.
And he said in gentle, gracious tones, “If I tell you just what I think, I would not like to say it officially, but would say it in confidence, as from an Allen to an Allen.”
Says I, “It sha'n't go no further.”
And so I would warn everybody that it must not be told.
Then says he, “I will tell you. I wouldn't dast.”