I have come here, not in the first place with a hope of personal advantage, but to see if I can interest Lady Ogram in certain views which I hold and am trying to get accepted by people of influence.

It happened that this affair of the mill gave me a good illustration of the theory I generally have to put in an abstract way.
Your word 'improvisation' seems to hint that I shaped my views to the purpose of pleasing Lady Ogram--a plain injustice, as you will see if you remember the letter I wrote you." Constance was leaning on a parapet, her arms folded.
"I'm sorry you so understood me," she said, though without the accent of penitence, for in truth she seemed quietly amused.

"All I meant was that you were admirably quick in seizing an opportunity of beginning your propaganda." "I don't think you meant only that," remarked Dyce, coolly, looking her in the eyes.
"Is it your habit to contradict so grossly ?" asked Constance, with a cold air of surprise.
"I try to make my talk--especially with women as honest as I can.

It seems mere justice to them, as well as to myself.

And please observe that I did _not_ grossly contradict you.