Mr.Mountjoy's discoveries had not been communicated yet.
In Hugh's state of mind, there was some irritating influence in the presence of the mistress of the house, which applied the spur to his wits.

He mischievously proposed submitting to her the question in dispute between Iris and himself.
"It is a very simple matter," he said to Mrs.Vimpany.

"Miss Henley's father is anxious that she should return to him, after an estrangement between them which is happily at an end.

Do you think she ought to allow any accidental engagements to prevent her from going home at once?
If she requests your indulgence, under the circumstances, has she any reason to anticipate a refusal ?" Mrs.Vimpany's expressive eyes looked up, with saintly resignation, at the dirty ceiling--and asked in dumb show what she had done to deserve the injury implied by a doubt.
"Mr.Mountjoy," she said sternly, "you insult me by asking the question."-- "Dear Miss Henley," she continued, turning to Iris, _"you_ will do me justice, I am sure.

Am I capable of allowing my own feelings to stand in the way, when your filial duty is concerned?
Leave me, my sweet friend.