“I am always sorry to disappoint expectations, but I have not the smallest intention of marrying your sister,” said Sir Richard, taking another pinch of snuff.
Beverley’s jaw dropped. “You d-don’t mean she w-wouldn’t have you?”
“No, I don’t mean that.”
“B-but it’s as g-good as settled!”
“Not, believe me, by me.”
“The d-devil!” Beverley said blankly.
“So you see,” pursued Sir Richard, “I should have no compunction whatsoever in informing Saar of this episode.”
“You w-wouldn’t split on me to my f-father!” Beverley cried, jumping up from the tree-stump.
“That, my dear Beverley, rests entirely with you.”
“But, d-damn it, m-man, I can’t give the d-diamonds back! I tell you I’m d-done—up, fast aground!”