Her spouse began to be very uneasy at the frank demeanour of
his yoke-fellow, whom he endeavoured to check in her vivacity, by
assuming a severity of aspect; but whether she obeyed the dictates
of her own disposition, which, perhaps, was merry and unreserved,
or wanted to punish Mr. Hornbeck for his jealousy of temper; certain
it is, her gaiety increased to such a degree, that her husband was
grievously alarmed and, incensed at her conduct, and resolved to
make her sensible of his displeasure, by treading in secret upon
her toes. He was, however, so disconcerted by his indignation, that
he mistook his mark, and applied the sharp heel of his shoe to the
side of Mr. Jolter's foot, comprehending his little toe that was
studded with an angry corn, which he invaded with such a sudden
jerk, that the governor, unable to endure the torture in silence
started up, and, dancing on the floor, roared hideously with repeated
bellowings, to the enjoyment of Peregrine and the lady, who laughed
themselves almost into convulsions at the joke. Hornbeck, confounded
at the mistake he had committed, begged pardon of the injured tutor
with great contrition protesting that the blow he had so unfortunately
received, was intended for an ugly cur, which he thought had posted
himself under the table.
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