“Why not?” said Mr. Denman, grasping the arms of his office chair.
“Because you would not have insulted a stranger in your office who was trying his best to understand his work. And then, I should not have tried it on you.”
“And why?”
“Well, I think I know a gentleman when I see one.”
Mr. Denman was not to be appeased.
“Well, let me tell you, young man, it would have been a mighty unhealthy thing for you to have cut up any such shine in this office. I have done some Rugby in my day, my boy, if you know what that means.”
“I have done a little, too,” said Cameron, with slightly heightened colour.
“You have, eh! Where?”
“The Scottish International, Sir.”
“By Jove! You don't tell me!” replied Mr. Denman, his tone expressing a new admiration and respect. “When? This year?”