"So I hear, sir," he said, striding up to me, "I hear that you have taken possession of my place without so much as 'by your leave'?"
"That's so," I answered.
"Haven't you done enough mischief here, without coming to insult me by your presence?"
"Not quite. I've a little more to do before I've finished."
"Jim," said the woman (in such a weary voice), "don't put yourself about over such a person. Better ring the bell for the servants and have him turned out of doors."
I looked round at her. She tried an insolent smile, but it broke down badly, and then his lordship strode up to me with quivering lips.
"Look here, sir," he said. "Aren't you ashamed to show your face in my house?"
"I'm not," I replied. "But before I leave it, I believe you'll be ashamed to show your face anywhere."
"Damn it, sir! Will you do me the honour to tell me why you are here?" said his lordship, with fury in his looks.
"Certainly. That's exactly what I've come for," I said, and then I stated my business without more ado.