I apologise most humbly to you and to Lady Victoria for having startled you;" he bowed to the Duke's sister as he spoke, and moved to go away.

He had already turned when Margaret's face softened.
"Dr.Claudius," she called again.

He was at her side in a moment.
"Please do not do it again--even if I am not there." She looked at him; he thought it strange.

But he was annoyed at the whole business, and really angry with himself.

She had spoken in a low tone so that the others had not heard her.
"Countess," said he in a voice decidedly sarcastic, "I pledge myself never in future to ascend to the mast-head of any vessel or vessels without your express permission." "Very well," said she coldly; "I shall keep you to your word." But Claudius had seen his mistake, and there was no trace of irony in his voice as he looked her steadfastly in the eyes and answered.
"Believe me, I will keep any promise I make to you," he said earnestly, and went away.