But, every now and then, Aunt Rachel would return to it, each time
softening a little towards Mary. At last she said,
"I'm sure it was a little thing. A very little thing. She might have
known that nothing unkind was intended on my part."
"There are some subjects, aunt," I replied, "to which we cannot bear
the slightest allusion. And a sudden reference to them is very apt
to throw us off of our guard. What you said to Mary has, in all
probability touched some weakness of character, or probed some wound
that time has not been able to heal. I have always thought her a
sensible, good-natured girl."
"And so have I. But I really cannot think that she has showed her
good sense or good nature in the present case. It is a very bad
failing this, of being over sensitive; and exceedingly annoying to
one's friends."
"It is, I know; but still, all of, us have a weak point, and to her
that is assailed, we are very apt to betray our feelings."
"Well, I say now, as I have always said--I don't like to have
anything to do with people who have these weak points. This being
hurt by a word, as if words were blows, is something that does not
come within the range of my sympathies."
"And yet, aunt," said I, "all have weak points. Even you are not
entirely free from them."
"Me!" Aunt Rachel bridled.
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