Suddenly he went straight up to Frederick Massingbird's chamber, who was deep in the business of packing, as his unfortunate brother John had been, not two short years before.
"I wish to speak to you," he began.

"I have thought of doing so these several days past, but have hesitated, for you may dream that it is no business of mine.

However, I cannot get it off my mind that it may be my duty; and I have come to do it." Frederick Massingbird was half buried amid piles of things, but he turned round at this strange address and looked at Lionel.
"Is there _nothing_ on your conscience that should prevent your marrying that girl ?" gravely asked Lionel.
"Do you want her left for yourself ?" was Fred's answer, after a prolonged stare.
Lionel flushed to his very temples.

He controlled the hasty retort that rose to his tongue.

"I came here not to speak in any one's interest but hers.