“Yes, it is!” Juliana answered. “Why should I prefer to be scolded by you? For that is all you do, Frederick; you know it is!”
“If my remonstrances seem to you to be in the nature of scolding — ”
“Why must you remonstrate with me? I vow if that is how you mean to treat me when we are married I would rather remain single.”
Mr. Comyn grew paler. “Tell me in plain words, if you please, do you mean that?”
Juliana turned her face away. “Oh, well! I’m sure I don’t want to quarrel with you, only every time you see me you behave in this disagreeable fashion as though I had no right to be at parties but must be for ever thinking of you. You think because you are used to live buried in the country I must be as dull as you are, but I have been bred very different, sir, I’ll have you know.”
“It is unnecessary to tell me that, ma’am, believe me. You have been bred to think of nothing but your pleasure.”
“Indeed!” said Miss Marling, with rising colour. “Pray do not mince matters, sir! Inform me that I am selfish. I expect no less.”
“If I think so, ma’am, you have no one but yourself to blame,” said Mr. Comyn, deliberately.
Juliana’s lip trembled. “Let me tell you that there are others who do not think so at all!”
“I am aware,” bowed Mr. Comyn.