Even Annie----, but I'll not speak of that this
morning. 'Twas the hasty word which we all utter at times--'tis forgotten.
Still, I think, I will give you the incident some day, when we ramble, as
now, in the fields.
From the fields we approach the honest old mansion, across the
emerald-carpeted lawn. The birds are singing, around the sleepy-looking
gables, and the toothless old hound comes wagging his tail, in sign of
welcome.
'Tis plain that Milo has an honest heart. I think he's smiling.
II
My ancestors were gentlemen of considerable taste. I am glad they built me
that wing for my books; my numerous children cannot disturb me when I am
composing, either my speech to be delivered in the Senate, or my work
which is destined to refute Sir William Hamilton.
Let us stroll in. A strain of tender music comes from the sitting-room,
and I recognize the exquisite air of "Katharine Ogie" which Annie is
singing. Let us look, nevertheless, at the pictures as we pass.
What a stately head my old grandfather had! He was president of the King's
Council, a hundred years ago--a man of decided mark. He wears a long
peruke descending in curls upon his shoulders--a gold-laced waistcoat--and
snowy ruffles.
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