"There have been a number of articles upon Sir Malcolm Loftdale," began Meg.
The editor acknowledged the truth of this statement by an inclination of the head.
"I know Sir Malcolm well. I am staying at Greywolds Manor. I am taking the place of his secretary," said Meg, determinedly ignoring the shyness that, without chilling her indignation, yet threatened to overcome her under the scrutinizing glance of the editor. "I am under great obligations to Sir Malcolm, I owe him everything."
The editor bowed his head, but did not break the silence. He appeared to be waiting for more cogent reasons to be advanced. Meg felt to a certain degree baffled by his manner.
"You do not know how good he is," she resumed with energy, "and you represent him as unjust and tyrannical."
"You must remember the criticisms are upon Sir Malcolm in his public capacity of landlord and magistrate. They do not apply to him as a private individual," said the editor.
Meg made a movement as if repudiating this line of argument.
"A man cannot be one thing in his public capacity and another in his private relationship," she said quickly.
"I am afraid he can," answered the editor, with a smile distantly brightening his glance.