I could look none of them in the face. Abraham looking at
me; Why, child, said my master, you have hardly recovered your fright
yet: how came your foot to slip? 'Tis well you did not hurt yourself.
Said Mr. Peters, improving the hint, You ha'n't sprained your ancle,
madam, I hope. No, sir, said I, I believe not; but 'tis a little painful
to me. And so it was; for I meant my foolishness! Abraham, said my
master, bid Robin put the horses to the coach, instead of the chariot;
and if these gentlemen will go, we can set them down. No matter, sir,
said Mr. Peters: I had as lieve walk, if Mr. Williams chooses it. Well
then, said my master, let it be the chariot, as I told him.
I could eat nothing, though I attempted it; and my hand shook so, I
spilled some of my chocolate, and so put it down again; and they were all
very good, and looked another way. My master said, when Abraham was out,
I have a quite plain ring here, Mr. Peters: And I hope the ceremony will
dignify the ring; and that I shall give my girl reason to think it, for
that cause, the most valuable one that can be presented her. Mr. Peters
said, He was sure I should value it more than the richest diamond in the
world.
I had bid Mrs. Jewkes not to dress herself, lest she should give cause of
mistrust; and she took my advice.
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