"I must have a straight answer," Tom began, "for I must not be put to the folly of acting without cause. Tell me, then, upon your honour, has there been reason between you and Captain Falconer for me to fight him? The truth, now! Of course, I shall find another pretext. It looks a thousand to one, there's reason; but I must be sure."
"Why, I think you have lost your wits, Tom," said she. "If a gentleman known to the family happens to meet me when I ride out, and we chance to talk—"
"Ay, but in such a private place, and in such familiar tones, when you scarce ever converse together at home, and then in the most formal way! Oh, sister, that it should come to this!"
"I say, you're a fool, Tom! And a spy too—dogging my footsteps! What right have you to call me to account?"
"As your brother, of course."
"My younger brother you are; and too young to understand all you see, for one thing, or to hold me responsible to you for my actions, for another."
"I understand when your honour calls for my actions, however! Your very anger betrays you. I will kill Falconer!"
"You'll do nothing of the kind!"
"You shall see! I know a brother's duties—his rights, by heaven!"
"A brother has no duties nor rights, concerning a sister who is married."