It's impossible.' 'Curb your tongue, in God's name, if this conversation is to last,' retorted Mr Haredale fiercely.

'I have said I love my niece.

Do you think that, loving her, I would have her fling her heart away on any man who had your blood in his veins ?' 'You see,' said the other, not at all disturbed, 'the advantage of being so frank and open.

Just what I was about to add, upon my honour! I am amazingly attached to Ned--quite doat upon him, indeed--and even if we could afford to throw ourselves away, that very objection would be quite insuperable .-- I wish you'd take some wine ?' 'Mark me,' said Mr Haredale, striding to the table, and laying his hand upon it heavily.

'If any man believes--presumes to think--that I, in word or deed, or in the wildest dream, ever entertained remotely the idea of Emma Haredale's favouring the suit of any one who was akin to you--in any way--I care not what--he lies.