“And he grudges me my little bit. Hardly fair, eh?”
“I can make no defence, sir. I only throw myself upon your mercy. My father is too unwell and irritable to see the matter in the light I do.”
“Ah! you are a prejudiced observer,” said the Doctor drily.
“I hope not, sir: I wish to be just; and I ask you not to think ill of us for this affair.”
“Humph! And are you apologising for Lady Pinemount too?”
“For my mother, sir? There is no need.”
“Oh! Why, I thought when Ahab coveted Naboth’s vineyard, the queen—”
“Doctor Salado!” cried Denis, springing from his seat with flashing eyes, “how dare you. It is an insult to my dear mother, who is as pained and grieved as I am.”
“I beg her ladyship’s pardon humbly,” said the Doctor, as he saw Denis glance again at Veronica, and that she made him an imploring sign.
“I—I beg yours, sir,” faltered Denis.