'I do not know that I am markedly so.'
'But I do: beyond the affair of the locket, born of my very regard for you, what is my offence?'
'What you are doing now, following me about—forcing your society on me, and tormenting as you do. I shall be compromised with Lady Fettercairn if you do not take care.'
'I think you treat me with cruel coldness, considering the love I have borne you so long. Why should not we be even the friends we once were at Revelstoke, and like each other always?'
'After all you have done to Florian!'
'What have I done to Florian?' he demanded, changing colour under the influence of his own secret thoughts.
'Cast him forth into the world penniless.'
'Oh, is that all?' said he, greatly relieved.
'Yes, that is all, so far as I know as yet.'
Again his brow darkened at this chance shot; but, still dissembling, he said: