Hear what I have to say.' 'As I anticipate what it is, and cannot fail to do so, Edward,' returned his father coldly, 'I decline.

I couldn't possibly.

I am sure it would put me out of temper, which is a state of mind I can't endure.

If you intend to mar my plans for your establishment in life, and the preservation of that gentility and becoming pride, which our family have so long sustained--if, in short, you are resolved to take your own course, you must take it, and my curse with it.

I am very sorry, but there's really no alternative.' 'The curse may pass your lips,' said Edward, 'but it will be but empty breath.