His manner was dejected; his looks downcast; and he would have passed Catesby without observing him, if the latter had not laid his hand upon his shoulder.
"Mr.Catesby!" exclaimed the young merchant, starting as he beheld the stern glance fixed upon him "I thought----" "You thought I was a prisoner, no doubt," interrupted Catesby, bitterly.
"But you are mistaken.

I am here to confound you and your juggling and treacherous associate." "I do not understand you," replied Chetham.
"I will soon make myself intelligible," retorted Catesby.

"Follow me to the garden." "I perceive your purpose, Mr.Catesby," replied Chetham, calmly; "but it is no part of my principles to expose my life to ruffianly violence.

If you choose to lay aside this insolent demeanour, which is more befitting an Alsatian bully than a gentleman, I will readily give you such explanation of my conduct as will fully content you, and satisfy you that any suspicions you may entertain of me are unfounded." "Coward!" exclaimed Catesby, striking him.

"I want no explanation.
Defend yourself, or I will treat you with still greater indignity." "Lead on, then," cried Chetham: "I would have avoided the quarrel if I could.