He spoke the language of an educated man, but with a trace of the Midland accent.

Dengate's speech had less refinement.
"What do you mean by your insulting talk, then?
I spoke to you civilly." "And I answered as I thought fit." The respectable citizen sat with his hands on his knees, and scrutinised the other's sallow features.
"You've been drinking, I can see.

I had something to say to you, but I'd better leave it for another time." Hilliard flashed a look of scorn, and said sternly-- "I am as sober as you are." "Then just give me civil answers to civil questions." "Questions?
What right have you to question me ?" "It's for your own advantage.

You called me scoundrel.

What did you mean by that ?" "That's the name I give to fellows who go bankrupt to get rid of their debts." "Is it!" said Dengate, with a superior smile.