"Will you hear me in my own defense, and then decide whether I am the greatest scoundrel living, or the best friend you ever had ?" He put the question kindly, with something that was at once grave and tender in his look and manner.

The extraordinary composure with which he acted and spoke had its tranquilizing influence over Percy.

He felt himself surprised into giving Bervie a hearing.
"I will tell you first what I have done," the Captain proceeded, "and next why I did it.

I have taken it on myself, Mr.Linwood, to make an alteration in your wedding arrangements.

Instead of being married at Dartford church, you will be married (if you see no objection) at the chapel of the embassy in Paris, by my old college friend the chaplain." This was too much for Percy's self-control.