thing is obscure, it is certain to deal in the superlative. You are sure that your English progenitor was great, Dickon, whatever his profession might be?"
"To be sure I am," returned the other; "I have heard my old aunt talk of him by the month. We are of a good family. Judge Temple, and have never filled any but honourable stations in life."
"I marvel that you should be satisfied with so scanty a provision of gentility, in the olden time, Dickon. Most of the American genealogists commence their traditions, like the stories for children, with three brothers, taking especial care that one of the triumvirate shall be the progenitor of any of the same name who may happen to be better furnished with worldly gear than themselves. But, here, all are equal who know how to conduct themselves with propriety; and Oliver Edwards comes into my family, on a footing with both the High Sheriff and the Judge."
"Well, 'duke, I call this democracy, not republicanism; but I say nothing; only let him keep within the law, or I shall show him, that the freedom of even this country is under wholesome restraint."
"Surely, Dickon, you will not execute till I condemn!" said Marmaduke. "But what says Bess to the new inmate? We must pay a deferrence to the ladies, in this matter, after all."
"Oh! sir," returned Elizabeth, "I believe I am much like a certain Judge Temple, in this particular; not easily to be turned from my opinion. But, to be serious, although I must think the introduction of a demi savage into the family a somewhat startling event, whomsoever you think proper to countenance, may be sure of my respect."
The Judge drew her arm more closely in his
