“All the talk in the world will not make her see the matter in its true light, yet; it will probably dawn upon her in a few weeks; but arguments now will do nothing but harden her.”
CHAPTER VIII.
Puff. “Now gentlemen, this scene goes entirely for what we call situation and stage effect, by which the greatest applause may be obtained without the assistance of ... sentiment or character. Pray mark.”
The Critic.
I returned to the Bank after seeing the ladies to Grove End, and going straight into my uncle’s private room, told him that Theresa and I were engaged.
“Engaged!” he cried, staring at me. “Are you in earnest?”
“Certainly I am.”
I never saw any man look so pleased.
“It is almost time,” he said, “that I had something to give my spirits a turn. This delights me. But, good gracious! how sudden! how unexpected! I had no idea you were in love with her.”