Off the Track (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1873. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... II. The tattle Trunk, JJARRY, come out of that kitchen. I'm ashamed of you," cried a weak, querulous voice. "Ashamed of me why? you would not have me light my cigar in the parlor, would you? particularly when I've promised that this shall be the last week of my smoking." "0," sniffed the lady, giving him a contemptuous glance, as the six-footer came out upon the threshold and calmly looked down upon the flushed face of his worldly aunt. "It wasn't your cigar that you went for, I believe that. I don't know but I think you're a fool, Charles Austin." "Thank you, madam." The smoke curled blandly from his lips as he strode after her through the narrow passage and up the stairs. "You know it's no place for you in the kitchen," continued the woman, still more angrily; "a young man of your position, and bringing up Charles, I shall have to inform your father." "0f what, madam?" "0f improper doinge, that's what, sir; you know as well as I do, what I mean. I'd scorn to couple the name of any friend of mine with that--that--0, Charles I'm disgusted and as'i amed." "You're speaking of poor little Nelly, I suppose?" "The audacious " cried his aunt, putting back her head, and looking with wide eyes and inflamed visage. "You mention her name as easily and naturally as if she were one of your sisters." "Why, aunty, I'm surprised at you," continued the young man in the same vein of jocularity; "I consider her a very nice accomplished girl. I'm sure she's a capital cook." "Cook " the poor woman's face grew purple. "Splendid washer and ironer." "Charles " the voice was choked with passion. "An excellent economist, as I have heard you say." "Charles Henry Dollivar Austin, you--you will kill me," cried his aunt, breathlessly. "Havn't you often boasted of your own acquirements in...