“Now, look here,” said Mr. Boffin, as soon as he could find an opening for breaking the silence and striking in. “Give me your attention, Bella. I am not angry.”

“I am !” said Bella.

“I say,” resumed the Golden Dustman, “I am not angry, and I mean kindly to you, and I want to overlook this. So you’ll stay where you are, and we’ll agree to say no more about it.”

“No, I can’t stay here,” cried Bella, rising hurriedly again; “I can’t think of staying here. I must go home for good.”

“Now, don’t be silly,” Mr. Boffin reasoned. “Don’t do what you can’t undo; don’t do what you’re sure to be sorry for.”