His own countenance had darkened for the moment, but he recovered his composure immediately.
"As you will," he answered carelessly.

"Perhaps you can drop in later.
Come and dine, will you, at half-past eight ?" "I am much obliged to you, Baron," Duncombe said, "but I cannot accept your invitation.

I am a lover of plain speaking, so I will not plead a previous engagement.

But the one thing I want from you, the thing which I have almost a right to demand, you will not give.

I do not feel, therefore, that any more than ordinary intercourse is possible between us." The Baron bowed gravely.
"My dear Sir George," he said, "I am answered.