Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 3.djvu/60

50 in so determined a manner that he could not, or did not choose to resist its authority. Somewhat reluctantly he ascended the steps and advanced a pace or two into the hall.

"And tell those gentlemen," I continued—"these men whether or not I yielded to your solicitations."

"I don't understand you, Mrs. Huntingdon."

"You do understand me, sir; and I charge you upon your honour as a gentleman, (if you have any), to answer truly. Did I, or did I not?"

"No," muttered he, turning away.

"Speak up sir; they can't hear you. Did I grant your request?"

"You did not."

"No, I'll be sworn she didn't," said Hattersley, "or he'd never look so black."

"I'm willing to grant you the satisfaction of a gentleman, Huntingdon," said Mr. Hargrave, calmly addressing his host, but with a bitter sneer upon his countenance.