"My dear father, I borrowed the expression from you. You called Mr Masterton 'an old thief of a lawyer' to his face: he complained to me of the language before I had the pleasure of meeting you. I feel, and always shall feel, the highest respect, love, and gratitude towards him. Have I your permission to go?"
"Yes, Japhet," replied my father, looking very grave, "and do me the favour to apologise for me to Mr Masterton for my having used such an expression in my unfortunate warmth of temper—I am ashamed of myself."
"My dearest father, no man need be ashamed who is so ready to make honourable reparation:—we are all a little out of temper at times."
"You have been a kind friend to me, Japhet, as well as a good son," replied my father, with some emotion. "Don't forget the apology at all events: I shall be unhappy until it be made."
Chapter LXXVII
Treats of apologies, and love coming from church—We finesse with the nabob to win me a wife—I am successful in my suit, yet the lawyer is still to play the cards to enable me to win the game.
I arrived at Mr Masterton's, and walked into his room, when whom should I find in company with him but Harcourt.
"Japhet, I'm glad to see you: allow me to introduce you to Mr Harcourt—Mr De Benyon," and the old gentleman grinned maliciously, but I was not to be taken aback.
"Harcourt," said I, extending my hand, "I have to apologise to you for a rude reception and for unjust suspicions, but I was vexed at the time—if you will admit that as an excuse."