'Other people have to undergo painful experiences,' said his aunt; and again, 'Out they go.'
'Not at once.'
'As soon as the funeral is over.'
'But why act with such precipitation?'
'Because I cannot endure them. Do you remember the story of the Republican judge, when a gentleman contended before him for his paternal acres against a sans-culotte, who had appropriated them? "These acres," said the plaintiff, "have belonged to my family for four hundred years." "High time," said the judge, "that they should be transferred to others;" and he gave sentence for the defendant. These Cusworths have been in possession quite long enough. High time that they should budge, and make room for me.'
'But you must consider the feelings of the old lady. You have no excuse for acting peremptorily.'
'I shall inquire what wage she has received, pay her a month, and send her off. That is to say,' added Mrs. Sidebottom on further consideration, 'I will pay her as soon as I have got some of Jeremiah's money out of the bank.'
'And that cannot be touched till his will has been proved.'
'There is no will.'
'How do you know that?'