“My servants would do nothing of the sort, fellow,” said Sir Hampton.
“But they have done it, Sir Hampton,” said Humphrey. “There they are; there’s their footmarks right across the field; and they’re always at it, and breaking down the bushes.”
“Hold your tongue, Humphrey,” said Trevor. “I beg your pardon—Sir Hampton Rea, I believe?”
The wasp sting, kept back so long, now came out.
“And pray, sir, why are you trespassing on my grounds?” exclaimed the knight, furiously.
“Excuse me, I am on my own,” said Trevor.
“Your own! I never heard such insolence in my life. Who are you, sir? What the devil are you? Where do you come from?”
“Well,” said Trevor, with a red spot coming into each cheek, but speaking quite coolly, “my name is Trevor. I am the owner of Penreife, and I have lately returned from sea.”
“Then—then—go back to sea, sir, or get off my grounds; or, by gad, sir, my labourers shall kick you off.”
The men advanced menacingly; but, with a face like fire, Humphrey rolled up his cuffs.