‘I want an explanation from you,’ said Harry, ‘about what you have just said to Miss West concerning her father being in your power and your determination to marry her.’
‘That’s easily given,’ replied Rodley. ‘At a word from me, old Captain West could be ruined and disgraced. I’m as much in love with Bertha’——
‘Miss West, if you please.’
‘I said “Bertha,” and I repeat it,’ continued Rodley. ‘I’m as much in love with her as you are, and I intend to marry her. If I can’t marry her, I ruin her father.’
‘How can you ruin him?’
‘It’s very likely I should tell you—isn’t it?’ answered Rodley with a sneer.
‘I intend to find out.’
‘Very well then, find out,’ retorted Rodley.—‘And now I must be off.’
‘You don’t go until I have an explanation,’ cried Harry. ‘I don’t believe a word of what you say, and I believe you are only trying to terrify the poor girl into submission.’
‘Come now, Symonds, don’t be a fool; we’re men of the world, and it’s time we understood one another. I tell you once and for all, if Bertha West does not marry me, I’ll have her father up in the felon’s dock.—There; I’ve said more than I intended, so good-morning.’