text:  Mr Pitskiver was amazed at the expression of the look; for he little knew that his labours under the table in attempting to check Mr Whalley's oratory by pressing his toes had unfortunately been bestowed on the delicate foot of his hostess; and what less could she do than respond to the gentle courtesy by a glance of gratitude for what she considered a movement of sympathy and condolence under the atrocious reminiscences of the wood-merchant? Mr Whalley however was struck with the mournful silence that followed his observation