“‘Lottie, have you unlimited confidence in my honor?’
“‘Are you fond of stewed squirrel; try some of it—I think it is very nice; as to confidence, I would swear by you if it were not sinful. You know the good book forbids us to swear by anything—hold your goblet over here and let me give you some milk—I think your honor is first-class—won’t you have a piece of chicken—as to your integrity, it is good, middling—any other questions you wish to ask?’
“‘See here, Lottie, this may be the last dinner that you and I ever will eat together; in fact, I am afraid that it will, and we must have a serious talk before we part.’
“The goblet which she attempted to hand to me fell on the table and broke into fragments.
“‘There now, Edward, see what I have done—and you are responsible for it, because you have frightened me with your evil prophecies.’
“‘I am truly sorry that I have been so unfortunate as to disturb your equanimity, but we had better discuss this matter now. I am impressed with the belief that a deep-laid scheme is on foot, originated and worked by some unknown enemy of mine, the object of which is to create a breach between you and me. If, therefore, you hear any evil reports about me, I want you to make a solemn promise that you will grant me an opportunity to put in my defense before you venture to condemn me.’
“‘Edward, I have a notion to give you a downright good scolding—do you think any earthly power could shake my confidence in you? I would sooner distrust myself.’
“‘Thank you, Lottie, and if ever I give you just cause to withdraw your confidence from me, may Providence forsake me, Heaven disown me, and the world despise me!’
“‘I have no apprehensions on that score; I think I am acquainted with the nobility of your soul—at all events, I am not afraid to risk my destiny on the accuracy of my judgment.’
“‘Lottie, if it is sinful to worship any mortal being, then I plead guilty; but while I worship you, it has a tendency to increase my thankfulness to God.’