But this laudable resolution did not last. Mrs. Pickle, still
dubious of his constancy, and jealous of his communication with
the commodore, never failed to interrogate him every night about
the conversation that happened at the club, and to regulate her
exhortations according to the intelligence she received. He was
no sooner, therefore, conveyed to bed (that academy in which all
notable wives communicate their lectures), when her catechism began;
and she in a moment perceived something reluctant and equivocal
in her husband's answers. Aroused at this discovery, she employed
her influence and skill with such success, that he disclosed every
circumstance of what had happened; and after having sustained
a most severe rebuke for his simplicity and indiscretion, humbled
himself so far as to promise that he would next day annul the
condescensions he had made, and for ever renounce the ungracious
object of her disgust. This undertaking was punctually performed
in a letter to the commodore, which she herself dictated in these
words:--
"Sir--Whereas my good-nature being last night imposed upon, I
was persuaded to countenance and promise I know not what to
that vicious youth, whose parent I have the misfortune to be;
I desire you will take notice that I will revoke all such
countenance and promises, and shall never look upon that man
as my friend who will, in such a cause, solicit,--
Sir, yours, etc.
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