Don't you remember, he did
not tell it when you asked him, the first time he came? Now
this shows the old gentleman wishes to keep it secret, and to
try to find it out in any way would be a very unworthy return
for his kindness."
"Yes, it wouldn't be doing as I would be done by, to be sure;
but would it be _dishonourable_, Mamma?"
"Very. It is very dishonourable to try to find out that about
other people which does not concern you, and which they wish
to keep from you. Remember that, my dear daughter."
"I will, Mamma. I'll never do it, I promise you."
"Even in talking with people, if you discern in them any
unwillingness to speak upon a subject, avoid it immediately,
provided, of course, that some higher interest do not oblige
you to go on. That is true politeness, and true kindness,
which are nearly the same; and _not_ to do so, I assure you,
Ellen, proves one wanting in true honour."
"Well, Mamma, I don't care what his name is — at least I won't
try to find out; but it does worry me that I cannot thank him.
I wish he knew how much I feel obliged to him."
"Very well; write him and tell him so."
"Mamma!" said Ellen, opening her eyes very wide — "can I? —
would you?"
"Certainly — if you like. It would be very proper."
"Then I will! I declare that is a good notion. I'll do it the
first thing, and then I can give it to that man if he comes
to-morrow, as I suppose he will.
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