THE UNSPEAKABLE GENTLEMAN
struction on it. I beg of you, do not judge me so harshly. Launcelot himself—what am I saying?—Bayard himself, up to the present moment, could only commend my every action,"
"Even to bringing her to this house," I suggested coldly.
"Precisely," he replied. "That in itself was actuated by the highest piece of altruism heaven has vouchsafed humanity—the regard a father has for his son."
"Do you mean to think," I demanded angrily, "that you can bring me into this business?"
I was still on my feet, and took a quick step toward him.
"Is it not enough to find you what you are? You've done enough to me tonight, sir, without adding an insult."
My father nodded, quite as though he were receiving a compliment. Seemingly still well pleased, he helped himself again to his snuff, and dusted his fingers carefully with his lace handerchief.
"You misunderstand me," he said gently. "My present occupation requires a shrewder head and a steadier hand than yours."
"And a different code of morals," I added, bowing.
[50]
