I commenced an explanation of the statement, line by line, when he interrupted me, saying,
'Pray forgive me, but I can't keep these details in my head. Tell me the result.'
I told him in one word--ruin. Hitherto his manner had been so indifferent that one might have supposed we were speaking of business which did not concern him, but on mention of the word 'ruin,' a deathly paleness came into his face. Before he had time to speak the door opened, and a young man entered the room with the air of one who was privileged in the house.
'Uncle,' he said, 'Fanny told me--'
'Don't you see that I'm engaged, Ralph?' cried Mr. Glaive. 'I can't be disturbed. Go and wish Fanny good-night.'
The young man muttered a word or two of laughing apology, and retired. I saw him no more on that night, but, in the brief glance I cast at him, I saw that he was singularly handsome.
'Now tell me,' said Mr. Glaive, breathing quickly, 'what is your meaning?'
'My meaning is clear enough,' I answered. 'If these claims against you are pressed--and they will be--your entire property will not be sufficient to pay one-fourth of them.'
'But why should the claims be pressed?' he asked, with a helpless look.
I almost laughed in his face.