The Canterville Ghost

Because of all this, Lord Canterville, I feel sure that you will understand that it is impossible for me to allow any member of my family to keep the jewels. Silly toys like this may be suitable and necessary to the dignity of the British aristocracy, but they really do not belong among people like ourselves who have been brought up with the simple and strict life of people who live in a Republic.

Perhaps I should mention that Virginia would be very happy if you would allow her to retain the box as a memento of your unfortunate ancestor. The box is very old, and it is not in good condition, so perhaps you would like to do as she asks and let her keep it. Personally I am very surprised to find that a child of mine has sympathy with such old-fashioned idea. The only reason I can think of is that Virginia was born in one of your London suburbs shortly after Mrs. Otis had returned from a trip to Athens.'

Lord Canterville listened very gravely to the ambassador's speech, pulling his grey moustache now and then to hide an involuntary smile. When Mr. Otis had finished, he shook his head and said, `My dear sir, your charming little daughter helped my unlucky ancestor, Sir Simon, very much. I and my family owe her a lot for her marvellous courage and quick thinking. It is quite clear that the jewels are hers. I believe that if I was heartless enough to take them from her, the wicked old ghost would be out of his grave in a fortnight, and making my life extremely difficult.

Vocabulary:

Dignity: The way you respect yourself.
Strict: Keeping exactly to the rules.
Retain: Keep.
Memento: It helps you to remember something.
Gravely: Seriously.
Involuntary: Something you can't stop yourself doing.
Charming: Interesting and pleasing.
Heartless: Without feeling or sympathy.