"The fellow was born here. He is an old neighbour of Mistress Quinton."
"Dangerous then?"
It was Carford's turn to shrug his shoulders, as he said,
"Fools are always dangerous. Well, I'll leave you. I want to think. Only remember; if you please to be on your guard against me, why, be more on your guard against Simon Dale."
"He dares not stop me. Nay, why should he? What I propose is for the lady's advantage."
Carford saw the quarrel he desired fairly in the making. M. de Fontelles was honest, M. de Fontelles was hot-tempered, M. de Fontelles would be told that he was a rogue. To Carford this seemed enough.
"You would do yourself good if you convinced him of that," he answered. "For though she would not, I think, become his wife, he has the influence of long acquaintance, and might use it against you. But perhaps you're too angry with him?"
"My duty comes before my quarrel," said Fontelles. "I will seek this gentleman."
"As you will. I think you're wise. They will know at the inn where to find him."
"I will see him at once," cried Fontelles. "I have, it seems, two matters to settle with this gentleman."