Mr. Rayburn at once stated the object of his visit--as clearly, as civilly, and as concisely as a man could do it. He was conscious (he added) that he had been guilty perhaps of an act of intrusion.
The manner of the mistress of the house showed that she entirely agreed with him. He suggested, however, that his motive might excuse him. The mistress's manner changed, and asserted a difference of opinion.
"I only know the lady whom you mention," she said, "as a person of the highest respectability, in delicate health. She has taken my first- floor apartments, with excellent references; and she gives remarkably little trouble. I have no claim to interfere with her proceedings, and no reason to doubt that she is capable of taking care of herself."Mr. Rayburn unwisely attempted to say a word in his own defense.
"Allow me to remind you--" he began.
"Of what, sir?"
