They are getting frightened at what they have done, and they would be glad to escape the consequences by apologizing, most likely.

But they shan't.

I am not such a fool as they think." "They don't think so.

You have proved the contrary." "Jane," said Sir Charles pettishly, "do you know this gentleman ?" "I should think I do," said Lady Brandon emphatically.
Trefusis bowed as if he had just been formally introduced to the baronet, who, against his will, returned the salutation stiffly, unable to ignore an older, firmer, and quicker man under the circumstances.
"This seems an unneighborly business, Sir Charles," said Trefusis, quite at his ease; "but as it is a public question, it need not prejudice our private relations.

At least I hope not." Sir Charles bowed again, more stiffly than before.
"I am, like you, a capitalist and landlord." "Which it seems to me you have no right to be, if you are in earnest," struck in Chester, who had been watching the scene in silence by Sir Charles's side.
"Which, as you say, I have undoubtedly no right to be," said Trefusis, surveying him with interest; "but which I nevertheless cannot help being.