Mr. Manners did not start or betray agitation, but he looked keenly at his visitor. He was a man of method, and had on all occasions complete control over his passions. He recognized the name, the moment it was uttered, as that of the girl for whom his son had deserted him. Therefore, the name of an enemy; undoubtedly the name of an intruder.
"It is a name with which you suppose me to be familiar?"
"Yes, sir."
"I ask the question simply because there are coincidences, and I make it a rule to avoid mistakes. If you come from my son--"
"I do not, sir."
"But you are in association with him? You know him?"
"Only indirectly, sir. I have never seen your son."
"I refuse to take part in mysteries. You are related to the young woman for whom my son threw over his duty to me."
"I am the young lady's uncle."
"And your visit is in furtherance of an appeal from her or on her behalf?"