Now this was the “most unkindest cut of all;” for if report spoke truly, Mr. Kennyfeck had himself experienced from that gentleman a species of moral force impulsion which left the most unpleasant reminiscences behind.
“I beseech you to remember, Mrs. Kennyfeck, that this agency is one of the best in Ireland.”
“So much the more reason to have the principal your son-in-law.”
“I 'd have you to reflect how little success coercion is like to have with a person of Mr. Cashel's temper.”
“Peter is the best shot in Ballinasloe,” rejoined Mrs. Kennyfeck, sententiously.
Mr. Kennyfeck nodded a full assent, but seemed to hazard a doubt as to the efficiency of such skill.
“I repeat, sir, I'll send for him. Peter knows pretty well what ought to be done in such matters, and it's a comfort to think there is some spirit on one side of the family, at least.” Whether to afford a practical illustration, albeit negatively, or that he dreaded a continuance of the controversy, Mr. Kennyfeck feigned a business appointment, and retired, leaving his spouse to ponder over her threat, and resolve with herself as to the advantage of Peter's alliance.
While this conjugal discussion engaged papa and mamma, Cashel was endeavoring to explain to the fair daughters the reasons for his departure, affecting to see that the multiplicity of his engagements and duties required a step which he owned was far from agreeable to his feelings.
“I suspected how soon you would weary of us,” said Olivia, in a half whisper.
“We ought to have remembered, Livy,” said the elder sister, “how little would our claims upon Mr. Cashel appear when confronted with those of a higher station in the world.”