To which end, the accidental
discovery by Miss Knag of some tender correspondence, in which Madame
Mantalini was described as 'old' and 'ordinary,' had most providentially
contributed.
However, notwithstanding her firmness, Madame Mantalini wept very
piteously; and as she leant upon Miss Knag, and signed towards the door,
that young lady and all the other young ladies with sympathising faces,
proceeded to bear her out.
'Nickleby,' said Mr Mantalini in tears, 'you have been made a witness
to this demnition cruelty, on the part of the demdest enslaver and
captivator that never was, oh dem! I forgive that woman.'
'Forgive!' repeated Madame Mantalini, angrily.
'I do forgive her, Nickleby,' said Mr Mantalini. 'You will blame me, the
world will blame me, the women will blame me; everybody will laugh,
and scoff, and smile, and grin most demnebly. They will say, "She had a
blessing. She did not know it. He was too weak; he was too good; he was
a dem'd fine fellow, but he loved too strong; he could not bear her to
be cross, and call him wicked names. It was a dem'd case, there never
was a demder." But I forgive her.
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