Ablewhite. "I have a last word to
say, which I should have said some time since, if this----" He looked my
way, pondering what abominable name he should call me--"if this Rampant
Spinster had not interrupted us. I beg to inform you, sir, that, if my
son is not good enough to be Miss Verinder's husband, I cannot presume
to consider his father good enough to be Miss Verinder's guardian.
Understand, if you please, that I refuse to accept the position which is
offered to me by Lady Verinder's will. In your legal phrase, I decline
to act. This house has necessarily been hired in my name. I take the
entire responsibility of it on my shoulders. It is my house. I can keep
it, or let it, just as I please. I have no wish to hurry Miss Verinder.
On the contrary, I beg her to remove her guest and her luggage, at her
own entire convenience." He made a low bow, and walked out of the room.
That was Mr. Ablewhite's revenge on Rachel, for refusing to marry his
son!
The instant the door closed, Aunt Ablewhite exhibited a phenomenon which
silenced us all. She became endowed with energy enough to cross the
room!
"My dear," she said, taking Rachel by the hand, "I should be ashamed of
my husband, if I didn't know that it is his temper which has spoken to
you, and not himself.
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