These two last speeches I interpreted by contraries. I found by this,
that Sophia internally despised, as much as Olivia secretly admired him. -
»Whatever may be your opinions of him, my children,« cried I, »to confess a
truth, he has not prepossest me in his favour. Disproportioned friendships ever
terminate in disgust; and I thought, notwithstanding all his ease, that he
seemed perfectly sensible of the distance between us. Let us keep to companions
of our own rank. There is no character more contemptible than a man that is a
fortune-hunter, and I can see no reason why fortune-hunting women should not be
contemptible too. Thus, at best, we shall be contemptible if his views be
honourable; but if they be otherwise! I should shudder but to think of that! It
is true I have no apprehensions from the conduct of my children, but I think
there are some from his character.« - I would have proceeded, but for the
interruption of a servant from the 'Squire, who, with his compliments, sent us a
side of venison, and a promise to dine with us some days after. This well-timed
present pleaded more powerfully in his favour, than any thing I had to say could
obviate. I therefore continued silent, satisfied with just having pointed out
danger, and leaving it to their own discretion to avoid it. That virtue which
requires to be ever guarded, is scarce worth the centinel.
 

                                   Chap. VI.

                     The happiness of a country fire-side.
 
As we carried on the former dispute with some degree of warmth, in order to
accommodate matters, it was universally agreed, that we should have a part of
the venison for supper, and the girls undertook the task with alacrity. »I am
sorry,« cried I, »that we have no neighbour or stranger to take a part in this
good cheer: feasts of this kind acquire a double relish from hospitality.« -
»Bless me,« cried my wife, »here comes our good friend Mr. Burchell, that saved
our Sophia, and that run you down fairly in the argument.« - »Confute me in
argument, child!« cried I. »You mistake there, my dear. I believe there are but
few that can do that: I never dispute your abilities at making a goose-pye, and
I beg you'll leave argument to me.« - As I spoke, poor Mr. Burchell entered the
house, and was welcomed by the family, who shook him heartily by