"It would be wisdom in you, my most righteous progenitor, to bribe me to do so, when you know how much that tongue can reveal."
Another sneering derisive laugh from the son, of fiendish exultation, and a deep, hollow groan from the father, and the unhallowed conference was over.
Some one passed the door with rapid steps. I talked to the window as Theophilus emerged into the court-yard below. He raised his eyes to the window: I met their dull, leaden stare; he started and stopped; I turned contemptuously away.
Presently after we heard him bargaining for a horse to carry him as far as York on his way to London.
"I don't envy Robert Moncton's feelings," said George. "What can have been the cause of this violent quarrel?"
"It may spring from several causes. His son's marriage alone would be sufficient to exasperate a man of his malignant disposition. But look, Harrison, the clouds are parting in the west. The moon rises early; and we shall have a lovely night after the rain for our journey to York."
"Our—I was going by the coach which passes through the village in an hour to Elm Grove. But now I think of it, I will postpone my visit until the morrow, and accompany you a few miles on your way."
"I should be delighted with your company, George, but——"
"You would rather be alone, nursing these gloomy thoughts?"
"Not exactly. But it will postpone your visit to Miss Lee."