"If you saw him, Mr. Lawson, you would soon be convinced of his honorable intentions. Indeed, Mr. Spriggins is an attentive lover, and in every way worthy of Melindy."
"He is one of the best fellows I ever met," said Mr. Lawson, with much enthusiasm.
"You have reason to know him?" said Mrs. Montgomery, with evident surprise.
"He did me a very great service, Mrs. Montgomery, and one I can never adequately repay."
This was indeed a sudden revelation, but the lady showed good taste in her replies, and was much pleased with the knowledge that Phillip Lawson's character was made up of gratitude.
Mr. Moses Spriggins thought proper to spend a dollar or two upon Melindy "each time he came to town," and on this evening in question the happy pair might be seen on Charlotte street making glad the heart of the grocer by the extensive purchase of peanuts, peaches, pears, bananas, and every choice confection that was appreciated by Miss Melindy.
"I tell yer what, Melindy, if I was a-livin' in town I'd live. I'd buy them fellars out in less than no time," exclaimed Moses, as a fair-sized banana disappeared from view at one gasp. "Tell you what it is, Melindy, them fellars makes a fortin' out of this stuff; by golly, it's good." A fact which was evident from the gusto resorted to in mastication.
"Thunder! what's that purty thing a-hangin' out in front of that 'ere stoppin' place? Look Melindy."
"Why you goosey, that is the Royal Hotel light—the electric light."
Melindy pronounced the three words with an air of pride, which indeed seemed to say "please bear in mind that I am no ignoramus."