“This is incredible, sir,” cried Lord Courland. “I shall make no remarks, but it is useless to proceed with the business.”
“Your lordship seems to form a very unjust and improper opinion of my client,” said Mr. Carteret. “She was greatly distressed when she made the discovery I have mentioned—but more on your lordship's account than on her own. Though she will lose this large property, she can still settle fifteen hundred a year on your lordship, and has instructed me to say that she will do so.”
“I do not feel inclined to accept it, sir!” replied Lord Courland, haughtily.
“Then I am to understand that the match is broken off?”
“It is,” replied Lord Courland, in the same haughty tone.
“Permit me, then, to remark, on my own part,” said Mr. Carteret, “that I think Mrs. Calverley is much better off with her large property than with a title. I will communicate your decision to her. I have the honour to wish your lordship a good morning.”
And he quitted the cabinet.