It is much easier to slight than to appreciate
Tom Pinch.'
This was not said warmly, but was energetically spoken too; for there
was no subject in the world (but one) on which the speaker felt so
strongly.
'I grew into the knowledge of Tom,' he pursued, 'as I grew towards
manhood; and I have learned to love him as something, infinitely better
than myself. I did not think that you understood him when we met before.
I did not think that you greatly cared to understand him. The instances
of this which I observed in you were, like my opportunities for
observation, very trivial--and were very harmless, I dare say. But they
were not agreeable to me, and they forced themselves upon me; for I was
not upon the watch for them, believe me. You will say,' added John, with
a smile, as he subsided into more of his accustomed manner, 'that I am
not by any means agreeable to you. I can only assure you, in reply, that
I would not have originated this topic on any account.'
'I originated it,' said Martin; 'and so far from having any complaint
to make against you, highly esteem the friendship you entertain for
Tom, and the very many proofs you have given him of it.
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