"'
'And it is another most extraordinary thing,' remarked the Minor
Canon in the same tone as before, 'that these philanthropists are
so given to seizing their fellow-creatures by the scruff of the
neck, and (as one may say) bumping them into the paths of peace. -
I beg your pardon, Ma dear, for interrupting.'
'"Therefore, dear Madam, you will please prepare your son, the Rev.
Mr. Septimus, to expect Neville as an inmate to be read with, on
Monday next. On the same day Helena will accompany him to
Cloisterham, to take up her quarters at the Nuns' House, the
establishment recommended by yourself and son jointly. Please
likewise to prepare for her reception and tuition there. The terms
in both cases are understood to be exactly as stated to me in
writing by yourself, when I opened a correspondence with you on
this subject, after the honour of being introduced to you at your
sister's house in town here. With compliments to the Rev. Mr.
Septimus, I am, Dear Madam, Your affectionate brother (In
Philanthropy), LUKE HONEYTHUNDER."'
'Well, Ma,' said Septimus, after a little more rubbing of his ear,
'we must try it. There can be no doubt that we have room for an
inmate, and that I have time to bestow upon him, and inclination
too. I must confess to feeling rather glad that he is not Mr.
Honeythunder himself. Though that seems wretchedly prejudiced -
does it not? - for I never saw him. Is he a large man, Ma?'
'I should call him a large man, my dear,' the old lady replied
after some hesitation, 'but that his voice is so much larger.
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