"What is that rather harsh noise I hear, Mr. Halifax?"
"It is my men cheering me."
"Oh, how charming! so grateful to the feelings. And WHY do they cheer you, may I ask?"
John briefly told him, speaking with perfect courtesy as he was addressed.
"And this steam-engine—I have heard of it before—will greatly advantage your mills?"
"It will, my lord. It renders me quite independent of your stream, of which the fountains at Luxmore can now have the full monopoly."
It would not have been human nature if a spice of harmless malice—even triumph—had not sparkled in John's eye, as he said this. He was walking by the horse's side, as Lord Luxmore had politely requested him.
They went a little way up the hill together, out of sight of Mrs. Halifax, who was busy putting the two younger boys into the chaise.
"I did not quite understand. Would you do me the favour to repeat your sentence?"
"Merely, my lord, that your cutting off of the water-course has been to me one of the greatest advantages I ever had in my life; for which, whether meant or not, allow me to thank you."