In a word, Jasper, I want to establish peace between these
two young fellows.'
A very perplexed expression took hold of Mr. Jasper's face; a very
perplexing expression too, for Mr. Crisparkle could make nothing of
it.
'How?' was Jasper's inquiry, in a low and slow voice, after a
silence.
'For the "How" I come to you. I want to ask you to do me the great
favour and service of interposing with your nephew (I have already
interposed with Mr. Neville), and getting him to write you a short
note, in his lively way, saying that he is willing to shake hands.
I know what a good-natured fellow he is, and what influence you
have with him. And without in the least defending Mr. Neville, we
must all admit that he was bitterly stung.'
Jasper turned that perplexed face towards the fire. Mr. Crisparkle
continuing to observe it, found it even more perplexing than
before, inasmuch as it seemed to denote (which could hardly be)
some close internal calculation.
'I know that you are not prepossessed in Mr. Neville's favour,' the
Minor Canon was going on, when Jasper stopped him:
'You have cause to say so. I am not, indeed.'
'Undoubtedly; and I admit his lamentable violence of temper, though
I hope he and I will get the better of it between us. But I have
exacted a very solemn promise from him as to his future demeanour
towards your nephew, if you do kindly interpose; and I am sure he
will keep it.
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