“Well,” said the village magnate, “well, Mrs. Carter, now that you have had time to think over my proposal, you have probably seen its advantages.”
“I should not be willing to give up the house, sir. My husband built it, and—”
The squire's brow darkened. What a perverse, obstinate woman she was!
“That ain't the question,” he exclaimed, pounding his cane on the floor. “There are many things we don't want to do that we've got to do. You stand in your own light, ma'am. I have my rights.”
“We don't deny that, sir,” said Herbert, who enjoyed the squire's excitement, knowing how it must end.
“I am glad to hear it,” said the squire; “but it appears to me you think you and your mother are the only persons to be considered in this matter.”
“I think my mother is entitled to some consideration.”
“Haven't I considered her? Haven't I offered her a most liberal price for the place?”
“We don't call it liberal.”
“Then you are unreasonable. Many men in my position would offer less. Indeed, I don't think I ought to offer more than three hundred dollars.”