"Oh, I know you consider it a remarkable fine reason, but I tell you, 'tis rank cruelty to that poor child. As if she cared about highwaymen!"
"'Twas not so much that, I take it, as—"
"Yes, but he could tell her he was innocent—oh, Miles, do not look so provoking! Of course he could! I vow if you had treated me so, I would never have let you go until you had truly repented! I am of a mind to speak to Jack."
"'Twould be an entertaining sight, but ye'll kindly have a care how you touch him, my lady."
"He does not understand. I know she would be proud to marry him—"
"And ye'd think it a fine thing in Jack to ask her, the way things are with him at present?"
"I—oh, I don't know!"
"No, me love. Jack is right: he must first clear his name."
"Then, gracious goodness me, why does he not?" cried Molly, exasperated.
This time it was O'Hara's turn to look superior.