I'm sorry to be deprived of the
pleasure of your company. Sorry for the loss, and
the occasion of it too!'
'I have spoken plainly?' said the Carrier, accom-
panying him to the door.
'Oh quite!'
'And you'll remember what I have said?'
'Why, if you compel me to make the observation,'
said Tackleton, previously taking the precaution of
getting into his chaise; 'I must say that it was so
very unexpected, that I'm far from being likely to
forget it.'
'The better for us both,' returned the Carrier.
Good-bye. I give you joy!'
'I wish I could give it to you,' said Tackleton.
'As I can't; thank'ee. Between ourselves, (as I told
you before, eh?) I don't much think I shall have the
less joy in my married life, because May hasn't been
too officious about me, and too demonstrative. Good-
bye! Take care of yourself.'
The Carrier stood looking after him until he was
smaller in the distance than his horse's flowers and
favours near at hand; and then, with a deep sigh,
went strolling like a restless, broken man, among
some neighbouring elms; unwilling to return until
the clock was on the eve of striking.
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