This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 edition. Excerpt: ...thought I did Pray, what didn't I do that you thought I did. Forgive me, I am irascible at times, and I have not yet had my cod-liver oil. Most soothing is cod-liver oil. What didn't I do that you thought I did?' 'All the same, I am sure you did, ' said Mrs Rodney; 'it is like you. You were always generous. You don't know what my husband thinks of you.' 'If there is one thing more than another that I hate, ' said Sarson, standing up at that moment, 'it is flattery. When a woman stoops to flattery 3fadam, you are my hostess, and I do not wish to say anything rude; but if you cannot explain yourself, will you change the conversation?' Here little Mr Sarson placed himself on the middle of the hearth-rug, his legs slightly apart. Each hand was thrust deep into his trousers pockets; his hair stood up straighter and more wild-looking than ever; his blue eyes emitted sparks of indignation. 'I must speak out, ' said Mrs Rodney; 'this mystery must be explained. Mr Sarson, you have a heart, although you like us to think you have not. You are one of my husband's oldest friends.' 'One of Rodney's oldest friends? I should think so. There is not a man on earth I hold in the same reverence as I do your husband. I have the greatest passible esteem for Rodney; he is a man, and worthy of the name. To be frank, it is women I dislike. I am tolerant of men.' 'Notwithstanding your words, which are the reverse of gracious, ' said Mrs Rodney, 'I believe that you have a heart, and that you have acted in a very noble way. My dear husband has been at the point of death. A great London specialist, Sir John Carbcry Ah Mr Sarson, we are coming to the point now.' 'Bless me if I know what the woman means, ' muttered Sarson under his breath. 'Sir John Carbery?' he said...