Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 1.djvu/181

Rh "No, certainly; I exonerate my sister from such degraded tastes—and my mother too, if you included her in your animadversions."

"I meant no animadversions against any one, and certainly intended no disrespectful allusions to your mother. I have known some sensible persons great adepts in that style of conversation, when circumstances impelled them to it; but it is a gift I cannot boast the possession of. I kept up my attention, on this occasion, as long as I could, but when my powers were exhausted, I stole away, to seek a few minutes repose in this quiet walk. I hate talking where there is no exchange of ideas or sentiments, and no good given or received."

"Well," said I, "if ever I trouble you with my loquacity, tell me so at once, and I promise not to be offended; for I possess the faculty of enjoying the company of those I of my friends as well in silence as in conversation."

"I don't quite believe you; but if it were so, you would exactly suit me for a companion."