But it has not been quite so often remarked that
this power (fallible, like every other human attribute) is for the
most part absolutely incapable of self-revision; and that when it
has delivered an adverse opinion which by all human lights is
subsequently proved to have failed, it is undistinguishable from
prejudice, in respect of its determination not to be corrected.
Nay, the very possibility of contradiction or disproof, however
remote, communicates to this feminine judgment from the first, in
nine cases out of ten, the weakness attendant on the testimony of
an interested witness; so personally and strongly does the fair
diviner connect herself with her divination.
'Now, don't you think, Ma dear,' said the Minor Canon to his mother
one day as she sat at her knitting in his little book-room, 'that
you are rather hard on Mr. Neville?'
'No, I do NOT, Sept,' returned the old lady.
'Let us discuss it, Ma.'
'I have no objection to discuss it, Sept. I trust, my dear, I am
always open to discussion.' There was a vibration in the old
lady's cap, as though she internally added: 'and I should like to
see the discussion that would change MY mind!'
'Very good, Ma,' said her conciliatory son. 'There is nothing like
being open to discussion.'
'I hope not, my dear,' returned the old lady, evidently shut to it.
'Well! Mr. Neville, on that unfortunate occasion, commits himself
under provocation.
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