‘Is it necessary that I should answer that question, Mr. Bealand?’
‘I am afraid it is—highly necessary.’
Christine began to look concerned.
‘Where is the licence?’ the rector asked; ‘since there have been no banns.’
Nicholas produced it, Mr. Bealand read it, an operation which occupied him several minutes—or at least he made it appear so; till Christine said impatiently, ‘We are quite ready, Mr. Bealand. Will you proceed? Mr. Long has to take a journey of a great many miles to-day.’
‘And you?’
‘No. I remain.’
Mr. Bealand assumed firmness. ‘There is something wrong in this,’ he said. ‘I cannot marry you without your father’s presence.’
‘But have you a right to refuse us?’ interposed Nicholas. ‘I believe we are in a position to demand your fulfilment of our request.’
‘No, you are not! Is Miss Everard of age? I think not. I think she is months from being so. Eh, Miss Everard?’