But neither Miss Hallam nor Hallam Hall
need go a-begging, lad. I ask thy pardon for offering thee owt so
worthless."
"Dear uncle, do not be angry with me."
"Ay, ay; it's 'dear uncle,' and 'dear father,' but it's also, 'I'll
tak' my own way', wi' both Antony and thee. I'm a varry unhappy old
man. I am that!"
He walked angrily off, leaving Richard standing before the picture
which so much resembled him. He turned quickly, and went in search
of Elizabeth. She was sitting with Phyllis in the breakfast parlor.
Phyllis, who was often inclined to a dreamy thoughtfulness, was so
inclined at that hour, and she was answering Elizabeth's remarks, far
more curious of some mental vision than of the calm-browed woman,
sitting opposite to her, sewing so industriously. Richard came in like
a small tempest, and for once Elizabeth's quiet, inquiring regard
seemed to irritate him.
"Elizabeth;" and he took her work from her hand, and laid it on the
table. "My dear love! does Phyllis know?"
"What, Richard?"
"About Antony and the Hallam estate?"
"No; I thought it best to let you tell her."
"Because you were sure I would refuse it?--Phyllis!"
"Yes, Richard."
"Your uncle is going to disinherit Antony; and he wishes me to become
his heir and take his name."
"But that is impossible.
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