I was at a loss what course to pursue. I was forced to submit to this fellow's company, and to endure patiently his insolence. But John and Dorothy would soon return, and there is no need that I should explain the dangers of the predicament which would then ensue.
When we were within a few yards of the inn door I looked backward and saw Dorothy and John approaching us. I held up my hand warningly. John caught my meaning, and instantly leaving Dorothy's side, entered an adjacent shop. My movement had attracted Stanley's attention, and he turned in the direction I had been looking. When he saw Dorothy, he turned again to me and asked:—
"Is that Dorothy Vernon?"
"Yes," I replied.
"Look at her, Tod!" exclaimed my lord, "look at her, Tod! The dad was right about her, after all. I thought the old man was hoaxing me when he told me that she was beautiful. Holy Virgin, Tod, did you ever see anything so handsome? I will take her quick enough; I will take her. Dad won't need to tease me. I'm willing."
Dorothy approached to within a few yards of us, and my Lord Stanley stepped forward to meet her.
"Ye don't know me, do ye?" said Stanley.
Dorothy was frightened and quickly stepped to my side.
"I—I believe not," responded Dorothy.
"Lord James Stanley," murmured Madge, who knew of the approaching Stanley marriage.