I may be a person of evil disposition, but I have shown no
unkindness to her."
"It is quite true," Margaret Admitted, turning a little pale.
"Since I have been alone, you have been kindness itself."
"Then let me repeat my question," Sir Timothy went on, "have I
the right to any consideration at all?"
"Yes," Francis replied. "Short of keeping us apart, you have the
ordinary rights of a parent."
"Then I ask you to delay the announcement of your engagement, or
taking any further steps concerning it, for fourteen days," Sir
Timothy said. "I place no restrictions on your movements during
that time. Such hospitality as you, Mr. Ledsam, care to accept
at my hands, is at your disposal. I am Bohemian enough, indeed,
to find nothing to complain of in such little celebrations as you
are at present indulging in--most excellent pate, that. But I
request that no announcement of your engagement be made, or any
further arrangements made concerning it, for that fourteen days."
"I am quite willing, father," Margaret acquiesced.
"And I, sir," Francis echoed.
"In which case," Sir Timothy concluded, rising to his feet,
lighting a cigarette and taking up his hat and gloves, "I shall
go peaceably away. You will admit, I trust," he added, with that
peculiar smile at the corner of his lips, "that I have not in any
way tried to come the heavy father? I can even command a certain
amount of respect, Margaret, for a young man who is able to
inaugurate his engagement by an impromptu meal of such perfection.
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