Is this old ruffian mad or drunk? was the secret question of the duke, whose tone and manner, always calm and polite, grew even calmer and more polite as the Iron King grew more sarcastic and insulting.
"I would suggest that you speak to Miss Haught on this subject, that she may confirm my statement," he said.
"I shall do nothing of the kind! I shall not entertain for an instant the thought of the possibility of my granddaughter breaking her plighted faith."
"I never knew that she was engaged. May I ask the name of the happy man?"
"Regulas Rothsay; he is not a duke; he is a printer; also a senator, and nominated for governor of his native State; sure to be elected, and then he is to marry my granddaughter, who has been engaged to him many years."
"But Miss Haught certainly authorized me to ask her hand of you."
When did this extraordinary acceptance take place?"
"Yesterday evening, at Lady Netherby's ball."
"After supper?"
"After supper."