"What I say. It's no use your assuming that innocent air, Maurice. You have not treated Lady Meg well!"
"I have! How dare you say such a thing? Lady Meg knew that I was in love with Isabella."
"Oh!" said David, with a sneer. "I overheard you arrange to marry her. But you'll never do that while I am alive, or Mrs. Dallas either."
"I know that Mrs. Dallas is on your side, and I know the reason."
"Then you know more than I do," retorted Sarby. "I told Mrs. Dallas that I loved Isabella and she said that nothing would give her greater pleasure than to see us married."
"You shan't marry her!" cried Maurice, angrily rising.
"I shall!" said David, and rose also.
"Boys! boys!" said Jen, annoyed at this quarrel, "do not be so positive. If you are both in love with the same woman, let the woman decide."
"She has decided!" said Alymer, sharply. "She loves me."
"I don't care two straws about that," said David, coldly. "I have not spoken to her yet, but all the same I intend her to become my wife. I give you fair warning, Maurice, that you are not to poach upon my preserves."