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54 of his strong and powerful mind it might seem as if he claimed to himself alone the right of absolute command, to which he expected all were to bow and to submit. Those whom he now had to deal with, were however differently disposed.

Having entered the apartment, Sir Howard calmly begged of Sir Charles to leave him a few minutes with Captain Douglas, "whom, he added," he might unintentionally have offended, and should that be the case, he felt happy to think the occasion admitted of a speedy explanation." Sir Charles, possessing that true dignity which ever accompanies noble sentiments, waiving compliance for a moment with the request of Sir Howard, accosted Douglas, saying, "I am led to fear, sir, by the warmth of manner in which you have conducted yourself towards this gentleman, that you entertain some hostile views against him; and as the master of this house, hoping to maintain in it peace and decorum, duty, as also honour, requires my interference."

Impatient of delay, and losing nothing of his haughty mien, Douglas replied, "I have but one question to ask; it will depend upon Sir Howard's answer whether this business will terminate in hostility or otherwise."

With the utmost coolness Sir Howard then