tand me when I say
that I cannot be contented to sit idle, trusting simply to
the assurance which I have of her affection. Did I doubt
it, my way would be more clear. I should feel in that case
that she would yield to your wishes, and I should then, as
I have said before, just take myself out of the way. But
if it be not so, then I am bound to do something,--on her
behalf as well as my own. What am I to do? Any endeavour
to meet her clandestinely is against my instincts,
and would certainly be rejected by her. A secret
correspondence would be equally distasteful to both of us.
Whatever I do in this matter, I wish you to know that I do
it.

Yours always,
Most faithfully, and with the greatest respect,

FRANCIS TREGEAR.

He read the letter very carefully, and at first was simply astonished
by what he considered to be the unparalleled arrogance of the young
man. In regard to rank this young gentleman thought himself to be
as good as anybody else! In regard to money he did acknowledge some
inferiority. But that was a misfortune, and could not be helped! Not
only was the letter arrogant;--but the fact that he should dare to
write any letter on such a subject was proof of most unpardonable
arrogance. The Duke walked about the room thinking of it till he was
almost in a passion. Then he read the letter again and was gradually
pervaded by a feeling of its manliness. Its arrogance remained,
but with its arrogance there was a certain boldness which induced
respect. Whether I am such a son-in-law as you would like or not, it
is your duty to accept me, if by refusing to do so you will render
your daughter miserable. That was Mr. Tregear's argument. He himself
might be prepared to argue in answer that it was his duty to reject
such a son-in-law, even though by rejecting him he might make his
daughter miserable. He was not shaken; but with his condemnation of
the young man there was mingled something of respect.

He continued to digest the letter before the hour of dinner, and
when the almanac was brought to him he fixed on certain days. The
Boncassens he knew would be free from engagements in ten days' time.
As to Lady Mabel, he seemed to think it almost certain that she would
come. "I believe she is always going about from one house to another
at this time of the year," said Mary.

"I think she will come to us if it be possible," said the Duke. "And
you must write to Silverbri