“Then if you can’t do it in a more agreeable manner,” returned the young lady, “I wish you wouldn’t.”

“I also,” pursued Mr. Sampson, “respect you, ma’am, to an extent which must ever be below your merits, I am well aware, but still up to an uncommon mark. Bear with a wretch, Lavinia, bear with a wretch, ma’am, who feels the noble sacrifices you make for him, but is goaded almost to madness,” Mr. Sampson slapped his forehead, “when he thinks of competing with the rich and influential.”

“When you have to compete with the rich and influential, it will probably be mentioned to you,” said Miss Lavvy, “in good time. At least, it will if the case is my case.”

Mr. Sampson immediately expressed his fervent opinion that this was “more than human,” and was brought upon his knees at Miss Lavinia’s feet.