'For neither, sir,' was the reply, in a low voice, 'for neither,' she repeated.
'Then I may put in an execution on the farm next week. Is it so?'
And Bryda answered,—
'If you are minded to be so cruel, sir.'
And so Mr Bayfield left her.
'Miss Palmer,' Mrs Lambert said, 'if that gentleman is paying his addresses to you, it is my duty to express a hope that they are honourable.'
Bryda's eyes flashed, and she answered,—
'The Squire has a matter of business connected with my grandfather, beyond this I have no dealings with him, madam.'
'I am happy to hear it, for although, Miss Palmer, I consider you as a friend rather than a serving-maid, and allow my particular friends to show you kindness, I must remind you that you are not in the class of life from which a country squire would choose a wife.'
Mr Lambert had left the parlour with the Squire, and Bryda felt that he, at least, knew the real position of affairs.