I saw that he became aware of our presence, and that it added to his discomfiture.
My lady flushed up.

"Are you aware, sir," asked she, "that you have gone far astray from the original subject of conversation?
But as you talk of your parish, allow me to remind you that Hareman's Common is beyond the bounds, and that you are really not responsible for the characters and lives of the squatters on that unlucky piece of ground." "Madam, I see I have only done harm in speaking to you about the affair at all.

I beg your pardon and take my leave." He bowed, and looked very sad.

Lady Ludlow caught the expression of his face.
"Good morning!" she cried, in rather a louder and quicker way than that in which she had been speaking.

"Remember, Job Gregson is a notorious poacher and evildoer, and you really are not responsible for what goes on at Hareman's Common." He was near the hall door, and said something--half to himself, which we heard (being nearer to him), but my lady did not; although she saw that he spoke.