He turned and looked at me in grave surprise.
“Step this way, if you please!” I repeated, in so determined a manner that he could not, or did not choose to resist its authority. Somewhat reluctantly he ascended the steps and advanced a pace or two into the hall.
“And tell those gentlemen,” I continued—“these men, whether or not I yielded to your solicitations.”
“I don’t understand you, Mrs. Huntingdon.”
“You do understand me, sir; and I charge you, upon your honour as a gentleman (if you have any), to answer truly. Did I, or did I not?”
“No,” muttered he, turning away.
“Speak up, sir; they can’t hear you. Did I grant your request?
“You did not.”
“No, I’ll be sworn she didn’t,” said Hattersley, “or he’d never look so black.”
“I’m willing to grant you the satisfaction of a gentleman, Huntingdon,” said Mr. Hargrave, calmly addressing his host, but with a bitter sneer upon his countenance.