"That may be," said the young man drily, "but you seem to forget that I am your husband."
"Husband!" echoed Bella amazed.
"Yes," said Vand; while Mrs. Coppersley—or rather Mrs. Vand—looked sullenly at the floor. "We have been married for three months, secretly."
"Why secretly?" asked Bella, still wondering at the news.
"That's our business," said her aunt insolently.
"Pardon me, Rosamund," said Vand, who was as polite as his wife was rude. "It is only fair that Miss Huxham should understand the position."
"Have it your own way, then," muttered Mrs. Vand, tossing her head, "only make her understand that I have had enough of her airs and graces. She can clear out of our house as soon as she likes, and leave us to ourselves."
"She is willing to do that for fifty pounds," said Vand politely.
"I shan't give her that amount."
"You are quite right, Rosamund; you will give Miss Huxham a cheque for one hundred pounds."