"
"Indeed! You expect me to believe all that, of course."
There was a rudeness in his manner that was offensive; but I did not
care to let him see that I noticed it.
"Why should you not believe my remark?" said I. "Is it a new thing
in your experience with men to find an individual considerate of
another?"
"What do you mean by considerate of another?"
My form of speech touched his pride.
"Mr. Wallingford has manifested towards you a considerate spirit,"
said I, speaking slowly and distinctly. "It naturally occurs to him
that, as you are so pleasantly situated at the Allen House, an early
removal therefrom might be anything but desirable. And so he has
rested quietly up to this time, leaving a decision as to the period
with yourself."
"Humph! Very unselfish, truly!"
His lip curled in disdain.
"If you feel restive under this concession in your favor," said I,
putting on a serious manner, "I would suggest independence as a
remedy."
He looked at me curiously, yet with a scowling contraction of his
brows.
"Independence! What am I to understand by your remark?"
"Simply this, Mr.
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