But what can you possibly have to do with me, or with any member of my family ?" John bit his lip; the 'squire's manner was extremely galling; more so, perhaps, in its outside civility than any gross rudeness.
"Mr.Brithwood, I was not speaking of myself, but of the lady whose message I have the honour to bring you." "That lady, sir, has chosen to put herself away from her family, and her family can hold no further intercourse with her," said the 'squire, loftily.
"I am aware of that," was the reply, with at least equal hauteur.
"Are you?
And pray what right may you have to be acquainted with Miss March's private concerns ?" "The right--which, indeed, was the purport of her message to you--that in a few months I shall become her husband." John said this very quietly--so quietly that, at first, the 'squire seemed hardly to credit his senses.

At last, he burst into a hoarse laugh.
"Well, that is the best joke I ever did hear." "Pardon me; I am perfectly serious." "Bah! how much money do you want, fellow?
A pretty tale! you'll not get me to believe it--ha! ha! She wouldn't be so mad.

To be sure, women have their fancies, as we know, and you're a likely young fellow enough; but to marry you--" John sprang up--his whole frame quivering with fury.

"Take care, sir; take care how you insult my WIFE!" He stood over the wretch--the cowardly shrinking wretch--he did not touch him, but he stood over him till, terrified out of his life, Richard Brithwood gasped out some apology.
"Sit down--pray sit down again.

Let us proceed in our business." John Halifax sat down.
"So--my cousin is your wife, I think you were saying ?" "She will be, some months hence.