But Mr. Broad was not so sure, although he hated the
Allens; and Priscilla, somehow or other, was not so sure, for,
despite her mother's constant hints about their vulgarity, she not
infrequently discovered that something was wanted from the shop, and
bought it herself.
One Monday afternoon, Mr. Broad having thrown the silk handkerchief
off his face and bestirred himself at the sight of the radishes,
water-cresses, tea, and hot buttered toast, thus addressed his wife:
"My love, I am not altogether inclined to discountenance the
attentions which George pays to Priscilla. There are so many
circumstances to be taken into account."
"It is a great trouble to me, John, and I really think if anything of
the kind were to happen, at least you would have to seek another
cause. Just consider the position in which I should stand towards
Mrs. Allen. Besides, I am sure it will interfere with your duties
here if we are obliged to take notice of the Allens more than of
other people in the town."
"To seek for another cause, my love? That is a very grave matter at
my time of life. You remember too, that there is an endowment here."
"Quite so; and that is the more reason why we should not permit the
attachment.
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