To cut it short, perhaps I might say that I didn't quite expect the tea-party would come off." "Why shouldn't it come off ?" "Well, sir, you might have some other engagement." Was this a hint?
or only an excuse?
In either case it was high time, if he still refused to speak out, that I should set him the example.
"You have given me some curious information," I said, "on the subject of fighting with the fists; and you have made me understand the difference between 'fair hitting' and 'foul hitting'.

Are you hitting fair now?
Very likely I am mistaken--but you seem to me to be trying to prevent my accepting your master's invitation." He pulled off his hat in a hurry.
"I beg your pardon, sir; I won't detain you any longer.

If you will allow me, I'll take my leave." "Don't go, Mr.Gloody, without telling me whether I am right or wrong.

Is there really some objection to my coming to tea tomorrow ?" "Quite a mistake, sir," he said, still in a hurry.

"I've led you wrong without meaning it--being an ignorant man, and not knowing how to express myself.