“I thought your delight would have been so great at our success that you would have for the nonce sunk all considerations as to social distinction. I find I am mistaken. I do not wonder at the revolt of the poor against the rich, of the opposition and bitter animosity displayed by one class of the community against another class.”
No. 16.
“YOU COWARDLY SCOUNDREL!” SAID THE NEW-COMER TO PEACE: “HOW DARE YOU STRIKE A WOMAN?”
Lord Ethalwood looked at the speaker in some surprise, but his countenance did not, however, wear an angry expression.
“I don’t think,” he observed with a smile, “that we shall agree upon this great social question, and it is therefore idle and useless to discuss it. I have my views, which it would appear are identical with your own. I do not like you any the less for plain speaking; nevertheless my opinion remains unchanged. I will receive my grandchild Aveline and her son, but I will not countenance her husband.”
“It is my bounded duty to act according to the instructions received from your lordship,” said the lawyer. “Tell me what you wish me to do.”
“You had better hasten at once to Wood Green, and let my grand-daughter know who she is. I should like you to bring her and her son back with you, if this be possible. I will, in the meantime, consider over the proposition we will make to her.”
“I will act in accordance with your instructions.”
“But you do not like the commission” said the earl, quickly. “You need not reply, Chicknell; I see you do not.”