When I wait at table, and
see him using his knife, I want to snatch it out of his hand, and stick
it into him. I had a hope that my lord might turn him out of the house
when they quarrelled. My lord is too wicked himself to do it. For the
love of God, sir, help my mistress--or show me the way how!"
Mountjoy began to be interested. "How do you know," he asked, "that
Lord Harry and the doctor have quarrelled?"
Without the slightest appearance of embarrassment, Fanny Mere informed
him that she had listened at the door, while her master and his friend
were talking of their secrets. She had also taken an opportunity of
looking through the keyhole. "I suppose, sir," said this curious woman,
still speaking quite respectfully, "you have never tried that way
yourself?"
"Certainly not!"
"Wouldn't you do it to serve my mistress?"
"No."
"And yet, you're fond of her! You are a merciful one--the only merciful
one, so far as I know--among men. Perhaps, if you were frightened about
her, you might be more ready with your help. I wonder whether I can
frighten you? Will you let me try?"
The woman's faithful attachment to Iris pleaded for her with Hugh.
"Try, if you like," he said kindly.
Pages:
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287