For once Mr.Hamilton was decidedly _de trop_.
I am sure he must have noticed my hesitation, but it made no difference to his purpose.

I had found out by this time that when Mr.Hamilton had made up his mind to do a certain thing, other people's moods did not influence him in the least.

He half smiled as he went out to put on his greatcoat, and, as though he intended to punish me for my want of courtesy, he talked to Max the whole time; not that I minded it in the least, only it was just his lordly way.
To my great relief, however, he left us as soon as we reached the vicarage, so I wished him good-night quite amiably, and of course Max walked on with me to the cottage.
He was actually leaving me at the gate without a word except 'Good-night, Ursula,' but I laid my hand on his arm.
'You must come in, Max.

I want to speak to you.' 'Not to-night, my dear,' he returned hurriedly.

'I have business letters to write before dinner.' 'They must wait, then,' I replied decidedly, 'for I certainly do not intend to let you leave me just yet.