a present wit

Again, the emotions of jealousy and rivalry are manifested to such an extent by the anabantid betta pugnax of Siam, that the species has been cultivated by the inhabitants of the country for the sport they furnish, which for them vies in interest with the cock-fights and bull-fights of the Spanish peoples.

Mr. Pynsent, who had asked Miss Amory to dance, came up on one occasion to claim her hand, but scowls of recognition having already passed between him and Mr. Arthur Pendennis in the dancing-room, Arthur suddenly rose up and claimed Miss Amory as his partner for the present dance […]

What seems to be the trouble my child? Ah, the pains of youth, he nodded condescendingly.