She did not speak, but drew her hand away and glanced at Jasper.
That glance would have melted a heart of stone, but his was one of fire and consumed all pity.
"Will you not speak? Great Heaven, what is the matter with you?" demanded Leycester.
Jasper made a step nearer.
Leycester turned upon him, not fiercely, but with contempt and amazement, then turned again to Stella.
"Has anything happened at home—to your uncle?"
"Mr. Etheridge is well," said Jasper.
Then Leycester turned and looked at him.
"Why does this man answer for you?" he said. "I did not put any question to you, sir."
"I am aware of that, my lord," said Jasper, his small eyes glittering with hate and malice, and smoldering fury. The sight of the handsome face, the knowledge that Stella loved this man and hated him, Jasper, maddened and tortured him, even in his hour of triumph. "I am aware of that, Lord Leycester; but as your questions evidently distress and embarrass Miss Etheridge, I take upon myself to answer for her."