“The very reason why I refused to receive the animal,” answered the farmer. “I have nothing more to say; and the least said the soonest mended.”
“Am I to take this message, then?” asked the groom.
“Yes; I have no other to send. Good day to you,” said the farmer, turning round as if about to enter his house.
The man led off the dog, observing to himself, “The young lord will be in a pretty way when he hears this; it won’t be the better for the farmer or Master Dick. That young fellow will get into more trouble if he doesn’t mend his manners.”
Lord Reginald, who had just returned with Voules from a ride, was standing in front of the house when the groom appeared, leading the dog.
“I thought I ordered you to take that dog to Farmer Hargrave?” exclaimed the midshipman.
“So I did, my lord, but Farmer Hargrave won’t have him, and says he doesn’t want any gifts from your lordship.”
“Impudent fellow!” observed Voules. “The father must be as great a barbarian as that precious son of his.”
“Did you give him my message properly?” asked Lord Reginald.
“Yes, my lord, word for word, and I advised Farmer Hargrave to take the dog, but he would not on any account.”