But that need not hinder you, gentlemen. So, said he, the rest sent,
that they should not dine at home; and they and Mr. Chambers, a gentleman
lately settled in these parts, one and all came with me: And so, my dear,
concluded he, when you make your appearance next Sunday, you're sure of a
party in your favour; for all that see you must esteem you.'
He went to them; and when I came down to dinner, he was pleased to take
me by the hand, at my entrance into the parlour, and said, My dear, I
have brought some of my good neighbours to dine with you. I said, You
are very good, sir.--My dear, this gentleman is Mr. Chambers; and so he
presented every one to me; and they saluted me, and wished us both joy.
I, for my part, said Mr. Brooks, wish you joy most heartily. My wife
told me a good deal of the beauties of your person; but I did not think
we had such a flower in our country. Sir, said I, your lady is very
partial to me; and you are so polite a gentleman, that you will not
contradict your good lady.
I'll assure you, madam, returned he, you have not hit the matter at all;
for we contradict one another twice or thrice a day. But the devil's
in't if we are not agreed in so clear a case!
Said Mr. Martin, Mr. Brooks says very true, madam, in both respects;
(meaning his wife's and his own contradiction to one another, as well as
in my favour;) for, added he, they have been married some years.
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