'Accept my conditions, sir, or afford me satisfaction,' cried Laxley.
'You do me great honour, my lord; but I have told you I cannot,' said
Evan, curbing his horse.
At that moment Rose came among them. Evan raised his hat, as did Laxley. Harry, a little behind the others, performed a laborious mock salute, and then ordered her back to the house. A quick altercation ensued; the end being that Harry managed to give his sister the context of the previous conversation.
'Now go back, Rose,' said Laxley. 'I have particular business with Mr.
Harrington.'
'I came to see him,' said Rose, in a clear voice.
Laxley reddened angrily.
'Then tell him at once you want to be rid of him,' her brother called to her.
Rose looked at Evan. Could he not see that she had no word in her soul for him of that kind? Yes: but love is not always to be touched to tenderness even at the sight of love.
'Rose,' he said, 'I hear from Lord Laxley, that you fancy yourself not at liberty; and that you require me to disengage you.'
He paused. Did he expect her to say there that she wished nothing of the sort? Her stedfast eyes spoke as much: but misery is wanton, and will pull all down to it. Even Harry was checked by his tone, and Laxley sat silent. The fact that something more than a tailor was speaking seemed to impress them.