Probably this explains his conduct to Evan.

Some youths have an acute memory for things that have shut their mouths.
The Countess observed to Harry that his dear friend Mr.Laxley appeared, by the cast of his face, to be biting a sour apple.
'Grapes, you mean ?' laughed Harry.

'Never mind! she'll bite at him when he comes in for the title.' 'Anything crude will do,' rejoined the Countess.

'Why are you not courting Mrs.Evremonde, naughty Don ?' 'Oh! she's occupied--castle's in possession.

Besides--!' and Harry tried hard to look sly.
'Come and tell me about her,' said the Countess.
Rose, Laxley, and Evan were standing close together.
'You really are going alone, Rose ?' said Laxley.
'Didn't I say so ?--unless you wish to join us ?' She turned upon Evan.
'I am at your disposal,' said Evan.
Rose nodded briefly.
'I think I'll smoke the trees,' said Laxley, perceptibly huffing.
'You won't come, Ferdinand ?' 'I only offered to fill up the gap.