Arthur, it is a state of hope. Not
but that I shall leave some regrets behind me. My wife will be lone and
comfortless, and must trust to her own exertions only. And my poor old
father--"
"If I didn't know it! If I didn't know that, on some subject or other,
he'd be safe to be worrying himself, or it would not be him! I'd put
myself into my grave at once, if I were you, Jenkins. As good do it
that way, as by slow degrees."
Of course you cannot fail to recognize the voice. She entered at that
unlucky moment when Jenkins was alluding to his father. He attempted a
defence--an explanation.
"My dear, I was not worrying. I was only telling Mr. Arthur Channing
that there were some things I should regret to leave. My poor old
father for one; he has looked to me, naturally, to help him a little
bit in his old age, and I would rather, so far as that goes, have been
spared to do it. But, neither that nor anything else can worry me now.
I am content to leave all to God."
"Was ever the like heard?" retorted Mrs. Jenkins, "Not worrying! _I_
know. If you were not worrying, you wouldn't be talking. Isn't old
Jenkins your father, and shan't I take upon myself to see that he does
not want? You know I shall, Jenkins. When do I ever go from my word?"
"My dear, I know you will do what's right," returned Jenkins, in his
patient meekness: "but the old man will feel it hard, my departing
before him.
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