“Because I would not be so beholden to him! He has not an ounce of spirit in him.”
She sighed, but shook her head. “I know, but the poor boy found himself in a sad quandary. He is a little spoilt.”
“He wants kicking,” said Mr Ravenscar, “and he will get it if he comes serenading my sister!”
“I don’t think she has the least idea of marrying him,” said Miss Grantham reflectively.
“What do you know of the matter?”
“Nothing!” she said hastily. “Adrian has told me a little about her, that is all. But I am not here to talk of your sister or of Kit either. Have you thought better of your rash words, sir?”
“If you mean, do I intend to give you back those bills, no!”
“You need not think I shall let you go, just because you would not permit Kit to set you free!” she said in a scolding voice.
“I thought you were not here to talk of your brother? You may forget that incident.”
She looked at him rather helplessly. “You were to have dined with Mr Crewe tonight. It will be all over town by tomorrow that you have disappeared. Already Sir James Filey is letting fall the most odious hints! He is upstairs now.”