"You tell me more than that," answered Rose Lyndwood. "And I discern who has been prompting you."
At this allusion to the Countess, Marius flushed.
"I need no promptings to perceive the way you live, my lord, nor can I shut my ears to what I hear of your senseless extravagance."
The Earl interrupted.
"Oh, she gave me a rake-helly reputation, I doubt not—spare the repetition, and understand I'll have no more of it."
"No more of what, sir?"
Lord Lyndwood moved towards him.
"No more of these discussions with my lady—either in my house or out of it—she needs no champions."
"I cannot speak of this with you," answered Marius hotly. "All has gone amiss."