He did not reply at once. Instead, he turned his back and walked away from us across the room. When I saw his face again he looked more like he ought to. He stood before the fireplace, and, in his turn, set up to be haughty. But it didn't sit so well on him as it did upon his sister. I should say that it came to her by nature--while he had to practise how to do it.
'I am placed in a difficult position.'
'I don't see it. Why don't you answer her question?'
'Because I have no answer to give her.'
'You mean that you don't know what has become of her husband?'
'Absolutely nothing.'
The young lady turned to me.
'You hear what my brother says.'
'I hear; but you must excuse my saying, miss, I mean my lady, that I don't believe him.'
'Why should you doubt my brother's word?'