'I know she would consider what you imply as dishonourable and treacherous!'
'No, no!' cried Will, vehemently; 'no such thing! Your sister in your house—as well-born a lady as any in England—a match for any man in the realm!'
'There are other reasons, besides her position in the family, which would make her think it treason to encourage what, I believe, has no existence.'
'Ah, then—you don't know what—' and again he stopped short between dismay and oppression.
'What do you mean?'
'No, no; you shall not have it from me. I'm only sorry I said a word.' And the poor fellow was going away.
'Hold, Bill! Tell me what you mean? I believe I can explain it!'
'There's only one expla—No; what am I saying? She has every right. You'll hear it soon enough!'
He was turning the handle of the door, when Felix said, 'If you mean that Robina spoke to him in the kitchen-garden on Thursday, I know all about that!'
'Indeed!' His face altered instantly.