The ladies, for
instance, who own these delightful grounds . . . doubtless they
are devout, in their way, but in a way how far removed from
those God-fearing English traditions which one day, as a
landlord among your tenantry and to that extent responsible for
the welfare of dependent souls, it will be yours to foster!'
"Here, warned by a choking cry, I put out a hand to catch Mr.
Badcock by the sleeve of his pallium: but too late! With a wild
gesture he broke loose from me and plunged down the pergola
towards the arbour, at the entrance of which he flung himself
on his knees.
"'Oh, sir!' he panted, abasing himself and stretching forth both
hands to the archidiaconal gaiters. 'Oh, sir, have pity!
Teach me to be saved!'
"The Archdeacon (I will say) after the momentary shock rose to
the occasion like a sportsman. A glance sufficed to assure him
that the poor creature was in earnest, and with great presence
of mind he felt in his pocket for a visiting-card.
"'Certainly, my good fellow, certainly .
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