"You laughed at my remarks, Miss Julia, at the time, and that was not discouraging, I thought."
"There is no sentiment in a laugh, Mr. Pynsent, but I am sorry you misunderstood my manner. Excuse me, but I never can like you in any light but that of a pleasant acquaintance, and I hope you will not renew the subject. I laughed at your odd way of broaching your subject last night, but I am sure I could not encourage you, for I left you, if you remember."
"You were very abrupt with me, Miss Julia, but I fancied you were only angry because I squeezed your hand."
Tom Pynsent turned scarlet as he spoke.
"Well, Mr. Pynsent, don't let us say another word on the subject, and pray don't worry me with complaints, for I am speaking my unchangeable sentiments when I say, any expostulation on your part will only make me dislike you; and I really like you very much as only Tom Pynsent, our pleasant neighbour."
"Why, there's only a right and wrong way of doing things," replied Tom Pynsent, rising; "and I have no idea of teazing a woman as if I was digging out a fox, to make her dread the sound of my voice. I wish you well, Miss Julia, and as you will never hear me complain of a woman who tells me plump she does not like me, you need not be afraid of meeting me sometimes. I like every body to be above-board, and say what they mean. I am very sorry to appear rude, Sir John, but you will excuse my taking leave. I came upon a business which is settled, you know, so I had better take myself off."
Tom Pynsent bowed, and turned towards Lady Wetheral, whose lips were white and compressed.
"I must not take a lady's word for her daughter in future, but you did all you could to give me hope, for which I am obliged to you, Lady Wetheral. Good morning to you."
He passed Julia in silence, but she held out her hand.
"Say we are friends, Mr. Pynsent."