Thus invited, the lady described his conduct in leaving her alone and unprotected in a London hotel, to the neglect of his affectionate assurances and the shame and confusion of herself, in language which did no more than justice to the theme.
"But I left Jean to look after you," he protested.
"When I want your daughter to look after me I shall ask you for her assistance," she replied tartly. "You broke your word to me, and you can't deny it."
"I do deny it," he replied, with dignity. "I told you I should travel north—"
"Oh!" she interrupted, with scathing contempt, "you were very straightforward and gentlemanly, I know!"
He looked at her ever more critically. A recollection of Ellen and the pine-wood returned forcibly.
"Put it as you will," he replied philosophically, and turned towards the fire.
She watched him jealously.
"But why did you run away?" she persisted. "Where have you been since? Heriot, I insist upon knowing that—I insist!"
She rose and came towards him. He took her hand and pressed it gently.