"I will not suffer you to speak thus.

And know, Rupert, if you do not know it already, that I have absolute power over the estates of the Chace, and that if you defy me I can leave them where I will." "I know it, madam," Rupert said, sadly; "but this will in no way alter my determination.

If when you marry you give me your permission to remain here with my grandfather, I will do so.

If not, I will go forth into the world to seek my fortune." "Insolent boy!" Mistress Holliday said, furiously, "I have a mind to call the lackeys in and bid them beat you." "Madam," Rupert said, drawing himself up and touching his sword lightly, "if you value your lackeys you will give no such order; for the first man, lackey or lord, who lays his hand on me, I would kill like a dog.

With your permission, madam, I will retire, since this morning I take my dancing lesson." So saying, with a ceremonious bow Rupert left his mother's presence.