HARDWICK--You have applied some remarks to me which I will endeavor to forget, as they were written in entire ignorance of the truth.

But if we are to remain friends, I expect you to believe me when I tell you that Mr.Richard Bassett has never been wronged by me or mine, but has wronged me and Lady Bassett deeply.

He is a dishonorable scoundrel, not entitled to be received in society; and if, after this assurance, you receive him, I shall never darken your doors again.

So please let me know your decision.
"I remain "Yours truly, "CHARLES DYKE BASSETT." Mr.Hardwicke chafed under this; but Prudence stepped in.

He was one of the county members, and Sir Charles could command three hundred votes.
He wrote back to say he had received Sir Charles's letter with pain, but, of course, he could not disbelieve him, and therefore he should invite Mr.Bassett no more till the matter was cleared.
But Mr.Hardwicke, thus brought to book, was nettled at his own meanness; so he sent Sir Charles's letter to Mr.Richard Bassett.
Bassett foamed with rage, and wrote a long letter, raving with insults, to Sir Charles.
He was in the act of directing it when Wheeler called on him.