"You know my motive in this matter, Mr. Hilton, and your own—brutal words could not make it clearer between us than it is now—but what of your daughter, is it fair to her?"
The other fumbled for the meaning behind these words.
"This is a curious thing for you to say, Lord Lyndwood."
"I speak against my own advantage, Mr. Hilton, which lies in this match," he smiled bitterly; "and Gad, I know not why I do speak save that there is no one else to say to you—reflect."
Mr. Hilton frowned heavily.
"Do you seek to evade the contract pledged between us?"
The Earl's voice was stormy as he answered.
"This is a sordid enough business, sir; believe me I do not find it pleasant." He checked himself, then flashed out again, haughtily, "I have seen Miss Hilton, and I have seen she is reluctant to become my wife. God in Heaven! do you not understand? What can you offer her? I am not famous for the domestic virtues."
Mr. Hilton was quick now to think he saw the intention behind the words.
"I am not asking for your reformation, my lord," he answered. "I expect nothing but to see my daughter your wife."