But this is a case where I have
the right to speak."
The Duke stiffened and his face was gray.
"I talked to her the way Land-pirate Kavanagh's daughter ought to be
talked to when she comes here mocking me. Now, Harlan, if you want this
in the open instead of in private, where it ought to be, I'll give it to
you straight from the shoulder. You're not going to marry that girl. She
shan't steal you and spoil you. I've told you so before. I give it to
you now before witnesses."
The girl ran toward him. She was furious. It was evident that shame as
well as anger possessed her.
"Have I ever said I wanted to marry your grandson? Has he ever said he
wanted to marry me? Is it because you have such a wicked old mind that
you think we cannot always be the true friends we have been? I do not
want a husband. But I have a friend, and you shall not take him away
from me!"
"You have heard, sir. Do you realize how you have insulted both of us?
You shall apologize, Grandfather Thornton!"
For reply the old man walked up to him, snapped the fingers of both
hands under his nose, and walked away.
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