'I cannot; I will not! You are in my path, not I in yours—that is, in the path of my life's happiness.'
Langford looked at him interrogatively.
'Uncle Langford, I must speak to you.'
'I am busy, I have to go to the church. It is the rural dean's visitation. I am churchwarden.'
'I will not detain you long.'
'I will not be detained at all.'
'I must speak to you, uncle. You are too—too cruel! you have come between me and happiness.'
'Get along. Don't think anything you say will make me leave Langford to you.'
'It is not that. I have not given that a thought. But, Honor——'
'What of Honor?' asked Taverner sharply, stopping.