It is over this question of the tables that one of these domestic differences arose which in its results brought about the return of the Monks to Monksland. Upon a certain afternoon the Colonel asked his son to accompany him to Monte Carlo. Morris refused, rather curtly, perhaps.
“Very well,” replied the Colonel in his grandest manner. “I am sure I do not wish for an unwilling companion, and doubtless your attention is claimed by affairs more important than the according of your company to a father.”
“No,” replied Morris, with his accustomed truthfulness; “I am going out sea-fishing, that is all.”
“Quite so. Allow me then to wish good luck to your fishing. Does Mary accompany you?”
“No, I think not; she says the boat makes her sick, and she can’t bear eels.”
“So much the better, as I can ask for the pleasure of her society this afternoon.”
“Yes, you can ask,” said Morris, suddenly turning angry.
“Do you imply, Morris, that the request will be refused?”
“Certainly, father; if I have anything to do with it.”
“And might I inquire why?”