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| 1 | 198 | 396 | 594 | 792 |
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'It was wrong,' said the old gentleman in a milder tone, 'very wrong. It
was romantic, unbusinesslike, foolish.'
'
It was my fault; all my fault, Sir,' replied poor Arabella, weeping.
Nonsense,' said the old gentleman; 'it was not your fault that he fell in
'
love with you, I suppose? Yes it was, though,' said the old gentleman,
looking rather slily at Arabella. 'It was your fault. He couldn't help it.'
This little compliment, or the little gentleman's odd way of paying it, or
his altered manner - so much kinder than it was, at first - or all three
together, forced a smile from Arabella in the midst of her tears.
'Where's your husband?' inquired the old gentleman, abruptly;
stopping a smile which was just coming over his own face.
'
I expect him every instant, sir,' said Arabella. 'I persuaded him to take
a walk this morning. He is very low and wretched at not having heard
from his father.'
'Low, is he?' said the old gentlemen. 'Serve him right!'
'
He feels it on my account, I am afraid,' said Arabella; 'and indeed, Sir,
I feel it deeply on his. I have been the sole means of bringing him to
his present condition.'
'
Don't mind it on his account, my dear,' said the old gentleman. 'It
serves him right. I am glad of it - actually glad of it, as far as he is
concerned.'
The words were scarcely out of the old gentleman's lips, when
footsteps were heard ascending the stairs, which he and Arabella
seemed both to recognise at the same moment. The little gentleman
turned pale; and, making a strong effort to appear composed, stood
up, as Mr Winkle entered the room.
'
Father!' cried Mr Winkle, recoiling in amazement.
'
Yes, sir,' replied the little old gentleman. 'Well, Sir, what have you got
to say to me?'
Mr Winkle remained silent.
'You are ashamed of yourself, I hope, Sir?' said the old gentleman.
Still Mr Winkle said nothing.
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