I should quite have enjoyed living with him, but he wouldn't hear of it.

He--he doesn't like me, I'm afraid ?" Perpetua looks at him anxiously.

A little hope that he will contradict Hardinge's statement animates her mind.

To feel herself a burden to her guardian--to anyone--she, who in the old home had been nothing less than an idol! Surely Sir Hastings, his own brother, will say something, will tell her something to ease this chagrin at her heart.
"Who told you that ?" asks Sir Hastings.

"Did he himself?
I shouldn't put it beyond him.