'I know my curiosity is
impertinent (added my uncle) but I have a particular reason for
asking the favour.' 'If that be the case (replied Mr Serle) I
shall gratify you without hesitation, by owning that I have had
no card. But, give me leave, Sir, to ask in my turn, what reason
you think I have to expect such an invitation from the gentleman
who gives tea?' 'I have my own reasons (cried Mr Bramble, with
some emotion) and am convinced, more than ever, that this
Paunceford is a contemptible fellow.' 'Sir (said the other,
laying down the paper) I have not the honour to know you; but
your discourse is a little mysterious, and seems to require some
explanation. The person you are pleased to treat so cavalierly,
is a gentleman of some consequence in the community; and, for
aught you know, I may also have my particular reasons for
defending his character' -- 'If I was not convinced of the contrary
(observed the other) I should not have gone so far' -- 'Let me tell
you, Sir (said the stranger, raising his voice) you have gone too
far, in hazarding such reflections'.
Here he was interrupted by my uncle; who asked peevishly if he
was Don Quixote enough, at this time of day, to throw down his
gauntlet as champion for a man who had treated him with such
ungrateful neglect.
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