"I can understand, I say, why you are unwilling to break through the reserve of your home habits," William calmly continued. "But, if you did so, you might no longer have to complain of the want of an object in life."
At this moment they came in view of William's house. Mrs. Halliburton happened to be at one of the windows. William nodded his greeting, and Henry raised his hat. Presently Henry began again.
"Pray, do you join the town in its gratuitous opinion that Henry Ashley, of all in it, is the proudest amid the proud?"
"I do not find you proud," said William.
"You! As far as you and I are concerned, I think the boot might be on the other leg. You might set up for being proud over me."
William could not help laughing. "Putting joking aside, my opinion is, Henry, that your shyness and sensitiveness are in fault; not your pride. It is your reserved manner alone which has caused Helstonleigh to take up the impression that you are unduly proud."
"Right, old fellow!" returned Henry in emphatic tones. "If you knew how far I and pride stand apart—but let it pass."
Arrived at the entrance to Mr. Ashley's, William threw open the gate for Henry, retreating himself. "I must go home first, Henry. I won't be a quarter of an hour."
Henry looked cross. "Why on earth, then, did you not go in as we passed? What was the use of your coming up here to go back again?"
"I thought my arm was helping you."