“It is as I expected,” he exclaimed bitterly; “my father was right.”
The letter was from Colonel Armytage, and was couched in almost offensive terms.
“Sir,—You took unwarrantable advantage of the opportunities afforded you of paying attention to Miss Armytage during our late voyage; and in case you should misunderstand my behaviour towards you while you had command of the ‘Osterley,’ I feel it necessary to state that, considering your true position in society, I consider your conduct most reprehensible, and desire that from henceforth all communication between you and any member of my family shall cease. My daughter is too obedient, and has too high a sense of propriety to differ in opinion with me on this subject.—I am, sir, your obedient servant—
“A. Armytage.”
When Ronald told his father what had occurred, Rolf replied—
“You will serve your country the more devotedly, and depend on it she has need of you.”