Page:Gissing - The Nether World, vol. III, 1889.djvu/123

Rh “That’s rather a queer sort of way to back out of your engagements, Kirkwood. I won’t say anything about myself, but with regard to my daughter”

“What do you mean by speaking like that?" cried the young man, sternly. "You know very well that it’s what you wish most of all, to put an end to everything between your daughter and me! You’ve succeeded; be satisfied. If you’ve anything to say to me on any other subject, say it. If not, please let’s have done for the present. I don’t feel in a mood for beating about the bush any longer.”

"You’ve misunderstood me altogether, Kirkwood,” said Joseph, unable to conceal a twinkle of satisfaction in his eyes.

“No; I’ve understood you perfectly well,—too well. I don’t want to hear another word on the subject, and I won’t. It’s over; understand that.”

“Well, well; you’re a bit out of sorts. I’ll say good-bye for the present.”

He retired, and for a long time Sidney sat in black brooding.

John Hewett did not fail to present