“Most certainly it is.”
“Then hear me, monsieur. From this moment I claim all the rights over Mademoiselle Trieste, given me as an accepted suitor.”
“You are justly entitled to them, I suppose, and welcome as far as I am concerned.”
“I will watch over my betrothed and guard her from stain—not her honour, which is unassailable, but her maiden reputation.”
“Well, sir, you are at liberty to do so. What has all this to do with me?”
“A very great deal. T forbid you to pass another hour under the roof of Madame Trieste.”
“Your insolence is intolerable,” exclaimed the earl, in a fury. “Do you suppose I am likely to submit to the dictation of a low-born peasant? You forbid! Be thankful I do not chastise you on the spot.”
“I am not to be intimidated—I have a duty to perform,” cried Chanet. “I say again I forbid you.”
Lord Ethalwood now became furious. He had listened complacently enough to a long and to him a tedious harangue, but his patience was by this time quite exhausted. He closed his fist and shook it in the face of his companion, who folded his arms and looked calmly but resolutely at the earl.
“I ought not to have lowered myself by consenting to this meeting, and now much regret having done so, since it has resulted in my being subject to insults from one who evidently does not know his own or my position. Get thee hence. I will have nothing more to say to you.”