"It isn't far, you know—just down by those big rocks. Your line is there. Of course," he went on politely, "you know that there is a feud."
"Oh, yes; I've heard you discussed. Besides, I met Tompkins and James this morning. Pardon me, Mr. Shaw, but I fancy I can get on without being led. Would you mind—"
"My dear madam, there is no alternative. I have taken a solemn vow personally to eject all Bazelhurst trespassers from my place. You forget that I am, by your orders, to be thrown into the river and all that. Don't be alarmed! I don't mean to throw you into the river."
"By my orders? It seems to me that you have confused me with Lord
Bazelhurst."
"Heaven has given me keener perception, your ladyship. I have seen his lordship."
"Ah, may I inquire whether he was particularly rough with afternoon?"
"I trust I am too chivalrous to answer that question."
"You are quite dry."
"Thank you. I deserve the rebuke, all right."
"Oh, I mean you haven't been in the river."