When the steam had roared off, and the ecclesiastical boiler of Mr. Porteous was relieved from extreme pressure, he began to simmer, and to be more quiet about the safety valve. Sitting down, and so giving evidence of his being at once fatigued and mollified, he resumed his discourse. "Sergeant"--he had hitherto addressed him as Mr. Mercer--"Sergeant, you know my respect for you. I will say that a better man, a more attentive hearer, a more decided and consistent Churchman, and a more faithful elder, I have not in my parish----"
Adam bowed.
"Be also seated," said the minister.
"Thank you, sir," said Adam, "I would rather stand."
"I will after all give you credit for not intending to do this evil which I complain of; I withdraw the appearance even of making any such charge," said Mr. Porteous, as if asking a question.
After a brief silence, the Sergeant said, "You have given me great pain, Mr. Porteous."
"How so, Adam?"--still more softened.
"It is great pain, sir, to have one's character doubted," said Adam.
"But have I not cause?" inquired the minister.
"You are of course the best judge, Mr. Porteous; but I frankly own to you that the possibility of there being any harm in teaching a bird never occurred to me."