“I have just told him that a marriage with Miss Atheling is out of all consideration; that both you and I are of this opinion; and, I may add, that my plans for Lord Exham’s future would be utterly ruined by a mésalliance at this time.”
“You will retract the word ‘mésalliance,’ Duke. You know Miss Atheling’s lineage, and that a duke of the reigning family would make no ‘mésalliance’ in marrying her. I say retract the word!” and the Squire involuntarily gave emphasis to the order by the passionate tightening of his hand on his riding-whip.
“I certainly retract any word that gives you offence, Squire. I meant no reflection on Miss Atheling, who is a most charming young lady–”
“There is no more necessity for compliments than for–the other thing. I have told Miss Atheling to see Lord Exham no more. I will make my order still more positive to her.”
“Yet, Squire, lovers will often outwit the wisest fathers.”
“My daughter will give me her word, and she would not be an Atheling if she broke it. I shall make her understand that I will never forgive her if she allies herself with the house of Richmoor.”
“Come, come, Squire! You need not speak so contemptuously of the house of Richmoor. The noblest women in England would gladly ally themselves with my house.”
“I cannot prevent them doing so; but I can keep my own daughter’s honour, and I will. Good-afternoon, Duke! I hope this is our last word on a subject so unpleasant.”
“I hope so. Squire, there are some important letters from Lyndhurst and Wetherell; can you come to the Castle to-morrow and talk them over with me.”
“I cannot, Duke.”