“I have reason to know they are here, and I will not leave without them.”
“You will do well to let us in, Mr. Escott; we are determined—”
“Who are you? What business is it of yours?”
“Should you refuse us admission we are resolved to wait here till evening, till midnight if necessary!” exclaimed Berkins. “I say again you will do well to admit us, and so avoid a scandal on the green.”
“You can come in if you like.”
“Will you kindly chain up that dog of yours?”
“Well, this is coming it too strong; this is a little too 'steep.' If Mr. Brookes refuses to believe my word that his daughters are not here he may come in and look for them, and to facilitate his search I will tie up the dog—(the dog is tied up). But you, what brings you here? What the devil, I should like to know, brings you here, poking your nose into other people's business?”
“Mr. Brookes, will you answer him?”
“I must decline your offer to admit me unaccompanied by my son-in-law. We shall not stay long.”
“All this seems to me very extraordinary, but since you wish it, Mr. Brookes, pray enter.”