Blake
with some severity, "even when they relate to a less disagreeable
matter than the one under discussion."
Mr. Gryce bowed, and slowly reached out for his hat; I had never seen
him so disturbed. "I am sorry," he began and stopped, fingering his
hat-brim nervously. Suddenly he laid his hat back, and drew up his
form into as near a semblance of dignity as its portliness would
allow.
"Mr. Blake," said he, "I have too much respect for the man I believed
you to be when I entered this house to-night, to go with the thing
unsaid which is lying at present like a dead weight upon my lips. I
dare not leave you to the consequence of my silence; for duty will
compel me to speak some day and in some presence where you may not
have the opportunity which you can have here, to explain yourself with
satisfaction. Mr. Blake I cannot believe you when you say the girl
who lived in this house was a stranger to you."
Mr. Blake drew his proud form up in a disdain that was only held in
check by the very evident honesty of the man before him. "You are
courageous at least," said he. "I regret you are not equally
discriminating." And raising Mr. Gryce's hat he placed it in his
hand.
"Pardon me," said that gentleman, "I would like to justify myself
before I go. Not with words," he proceeded as the other folded his
arms with a sarcastic bow.
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