'Yours always,
'Most faithfully, and with the deepest respect,'
'FRANCIS TREGEAR.'
He read the letter very carefully, and was at first simply
astonished by what he considered to be the unparalleled arrogance
of the young man. In regard to rank this young gentleman thought
himself to be as good as anybody else! In regard to money he did
acknowledge some inferiority. But that was a misfortune, and could
not be helped! Not only was the letter arrogant,--but the fact
that he should dare to write any letter on such a subject was
proof of most unpardonable arrogance. The Duke walked about the
room thinking of it till he was almost in a passion. Then he read
the letter again and was gradually pervaded by a feeling of
manliness. Its arrogance remained, but with its arrogance there
was a certain boldness which induced respect. Whether I am such a
son-in-law as you would like or not, it is your duty to accept me,
if by refusing to do so you will render your daughter miserable.
That was Mr Tregear's argument. He himself might be prepared to
argue in answer that it was his duty to reject such a son-in-law,
even though by rejecting him he might make his daughter miserable.
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