“He 's an infernal scamp,” said Matthew, “and you know.”
“He has been a little wild, I allow,” said Usher, indulgently. “But all young men sow their wild oats. Even you, Matthew, have committed indiscretions—”
“And I've paid for them a million times over,” said Matthew. “My God! I have paid the uttermost farthing.”
He passed his hand with a quick movement across his face, as if to wipe out a sudden contortion of features.
“We needn't discuss the matter,” he said in business tones. “I shall not give my consent.”
“I don't understand why it is necessary,” said Usher.
Matthew put him briefly into possession of the facts that Sylvester had disclosed to Roderick.
“They will marry without your consent,” said Usher. Matthew laughed.
“It takes two to make a marriage, Usher.” Usher looked at him dully and sighed. “I did not expect this ungenerosity from you, Matthew. Remember I am a father. I have always been a most affectionate father. My affection has always stood in my way. I plead for my poor son.”
“Your poor son! Why, I've supported him in comfort all his life. He earns a decent living himself, and twice I have saved him from gaol. By George, sir, he would have got there—and richly deserved it. If you think I'm going to give my consent to Ella marrying that confounded attitudinising swindler, you take me for a greater rascal than yourself.” Matthew got up and walked about the room.