If Captain Mountjoy would step into the drawing-room Mr. Prosper
should be informed. Mountjoy did as he was bidden, and after half an
hour he was joined by Mr. Prosper. "You have received a letter from my
father," he began by saying.
"A very long letter," said the Squire of Buston.
"I dare say; I did not see it, and have in fact very little to say as to
its contents. I do not know, indeed, what they were."
"The letter refers to my nephew, Mr. Henry Annesley."
"I suppose so. What I have to say refers to Mr. Henry Annesley also."
"You are kind,--very kind."
"I don't know about that; but I have come altogether at my father's
instance, and I think, indeed, that, in fairness, I ought to tell you
the truth as to what took place between me and your nephew."
"You are very good; but your father has already given me his
account,--and I suppose yours."
"I don't know what my father may have done, but I think that you ought
to desire to hear from my lips an account of the transaction. An untrue
account has been told to you."
"I have heard it all from your own brother."
"An untrue account has been told to you. I attacked your nephew."
"What made you do that?" asked the squire.
"That has nothing to do with it; but I did.
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