And I have begged the merest trifle." "'Begged' ?" said Constance, raising her eyebrows.

"You issued a decree.
I am not to dance with Radowitz--and I am not to see so much of Mr.
Sorell--if I am to keep your--friendship.

I demurred.

You repeated it--as though you were responsible for what I do, and had a right to command me.

Well, that does not suit me.