'Not from the lips of a low wretch like you,' said she.
'Know, young woman,' cried I, 'that the current which runs through these veins is registered in hereditary heraldry.'
The company gave a most disgusting laugh.
'It is,' cried I, 'I tell you it is. I tell you I am of the blood noble.'
'Oh blood!' squeaked a young gentleman.
What wonder that I forgot my prudence amidst these indignities? Yes, the proud spirit of my ancestors swelled my heart, all my house stirred within me, and the blood of the De Willoughbys rose into my face, as I drew the magnificent picture from my bosom, pointed a quivering finger at it, and exclaimed:
'Behold the portrait of my titled mother!'
'See, see!' cried the girls crowding round. ''Tis covered all over with diamonds!'
'I flatter myself it is,' said I. 'There is proof irrefragable for you!'
'Proof enough to hang you I fancy!' cried the old gentleman, snatching it out of my hand. 'So now, my lady, you must march to the magistrate.' I wept, knelt, entreated, all was in vain: his son, the young man who had paid my face the compliment, took charge of my person, and accompanied by the servant who had seized me, set off with me to the magistrate's.