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Support the Monkey! Tell All your Friends and Teachers |
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Support the Monkey! Tell All your Friends and Teachers |
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816 proof of the altered state of her affections, the circumstance of his having poisoned himself in private no less than six times within the last fortnight, and her not having once interfered by word or deed to save his life. ‘And I insist on being separated and left to myself,’ said Madame Mantalini, sobbing. ‘If he dares to refuse me a separation, I’ll have one in law--I can--and I hope this will be a warning to all girls who have seen this disgraceful exhibition.’ Miss Knag, who was unquestionably the oldest girl in company, said with great solemnity, that it would be a warning to HER, and so did the young ladies generally, with the exception of one or two who appeared to entertain some doubts whether such whispers could do wrong. ‘Why do you say all this before so many listeners?’ said Ralph, in a low voice. ‘You know you are not in earnest.’ ‘I am in earnest,’ replied Madame Mantalini, aloud, and retreating towards Miss Knag. ‘Well, but consider,’ reasoned Ralph, who had a great interest in the matter. ‘It would be well to reflect. A married woman has no property.’ ‘Not a solitary single individual dem, my soul,’ and Mr Mantalini, raising himself upon his elbow. ‘I am quite aware of that,’ retorted Madame Mantalini, tossing her head; ‘and I have none. The business, the stock, this house, and everything in it, all belong to Miss Knag.’ ‘That’s quite true, Madame Mantalini,’ said Miss Knag, with whom her late employer had secretly come to an amicable understanding on this point. ‘Very true, indeed, Madame Mantalini--hem--very true. And I never was more glad in all my |
