Sparsit, reproachfully, 'let me beg you
not to say that. Your absence will make a vast difference to me,
sir, as I think you very well know.'
'Well, ma'am, then you must get on in my absence as well as you
can,' said Mr. Bounderby, not displeased.
'Mr. Bounderby,' retorted Mrs. Sparsit, 'your will is to me a law,
sir; otherwise, it might be my inclination to dispute your kind
commands, not feeling sure that it will be quite so agreeable to
Miss Gradgrind to receive me, as it ever is to your own munificent
hospitality. But you shall say no more, sir. I will go, upon your
invitation.'
'Why, when I invite you to my house, ma'am,' said Bounderby,
opening his eyes, 'I should hope you want no other invitation.'
'No, indeed, sir,' returned Mrs. Sparsit, 'I should hope not. Say
no more, sir. I would, sir, I could see you gay again.'
'What do you mean, ma'am?' blustered Bounderby.
'Sir,' rejoined Mrs. Sparsit, 'there was wont to be an elasticity
in you which I sadly miss. Be buoyant, sir!'
Mr.
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