I could have groaned in my rage at such a misinterpretation.

I could have taken the Chevalier round to the other side of the chateau and killed him with the greatest relish in the world.

But I restrained myself, I resigned myself to be misunderstood.

What choice had I?
"Monsieur de Saint-Eustache," said I very coldly, and looking him straight between his close-set eyes, "I have permitted you many liberties, but there is one that I cannot permit any one--and, much as I honour you, I can make no exception in your favour.

That is to interfere in my concerns and presume to dictate to me the manner in which I shall conduct them.