'I wished to see you, sir, on a subject that has recently come to my knowledge. You have been addressing Miss Montgomerie in terms which no honourable man would do, without the full permission of those who are nearest and dearest to her, and have thus her welfare and her future at heart.'
Falconer, who felt painfully that in tone, bearing, and expression of eye, Sir Piers was now very unlike the hearty and hospitable veteran who welcomed him to Eaglescraig, said, with a somewhat faltering voice:
'All who have the happiness to know Miss Montgomerie will ever have her welfare and happiness at heart, Sir Piers.'
'Am I right in asserting what I do, Captain Falconer?' asked the latter, ignoring his remark.
'Before being borne away by my feelings, and permitting myself to address your grand-niece——'
'And ward. Yes, sir—well?'
'I ought, doubtless, to have obtained your sanction——'
'Or sought for it—well, sir—well?'
'And have satisfied you as to—as to——'
'Your means and position?' interrupted the old man, impatiently.