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"Upon my life," said Carton, smiling, "I find that easier to

comprehend in my own mind, than to convey to yours. However, let

me try. You remember a certain famous occasion when I was more

drunk than--than usual?"

"I remember a certain famous occasion when you forced me to

confess that you had been drinking."

"I remember it too. The curse of those occasions is heavy upon

me, for I always remember them. I hope it may be taken into

account one day, when all days are at an end for me! Don't be

alarmed; I am not going to preach."

"I am not at all alarmed. Earnestness in you, is anything but

alarming to me."

"Ah!" said Carton, with a careless wave of his hand, as if he

waved that away. "On the drunken occasion in question (one of a

large number, as you know), I was insufferable about liking you,

and not liking you. I wish you would forget it."

"I forgot it long ago."