Galton was dumbfoundered at this stroke, and could find nothing to say.
And now, as often happens, the matter took a turn not in the least anticipated by the conspirators.
"You must come with me, Sir, if you please," said Griffith, quietly: and he took Galton's arm.
"Oh, with all my heart," said the other. "But, Mr. Gaunt, do not you take these idle reports to heart: I never do. What the Devil, where are you carrying me to? For Heaven's sake, let this foolish business go no farther."
For he found Griffith was taking him to the very room where Neville was.
Griffith deigned no reply; he just opened the door of the room in question, and walked the tale-bearer into the presence of the tale-maker. George Neville rose and confronted the pair with a vast appearance of civility; but under it a sneer was just discernible.
The rivals measured each other from head to foot, and then Neville inquired to what he owed the honor of this visit.
Griffith replied,—
"He tells me you told him Miss Peyton has exchanged horses with you."
"Oh, you indiscreet person!" said George, shaking his finger playfully at Galton.