"She is not attached to me."
"Then you make a very ungenerous use of your position," retorted Shuffles, rather warmly.
"What do you mean, sir?" demanded Sir William.
"If your parents and hers made a bargain for her which she repudiates, I say it is ungenerous in you to use such an advantage as that bargain gives you."
"Do you mean to insult me?"
"Certainly not; only to speak as plainly as you have spoken. If my presence is disagreeable to the lady, I will avoid her."
"Your presence is not disagreeable to her," added Sir William, unable to conceal his vexation.
"Then you will excuse me if I decline to treat her with the rudeness you suggest."
"I find I am mistaken in you, and I regret that you compel me to ignore the obligations under which you have placed me."
"I cheerfully absolve you from any obligations which may weigh heavily upon you. But I assure you, I have no ill-will towards you, and I shall continue to treat you with courtesy and kindness. In about a week, our ship's company will return to Brest, and sail for the United States. It is not probable that I shall ever see Lady Feodora or you again."