'My wife cannot take upon herself the
burden of a single gold coin--least of all from a stranger. Remember,
sir, to us your possession of this wealth--nay, your whole existence--is
a mystery.'
'You want to know who I am?' said the old man drawing himself up, with a
sudden _hauteur_ which was not without dignity, despite his shrunken
form and grotesque appearence. 'Well, sir. I am----'
He checked himself abruptly, and looked round the room with a scared
expression.
'No, no, no,' he muttered; 'caution, caution! They have not done with me
yet; she warned me--they are lying in wait; I mustn't walk into their
trap.' And then turning to Lord Hartfield, he said, haughtily, 'I shall
not condescend to tell you who I am, sir. You must know that I am a
gentleman, and that is enough for you. There is my gift to your
wife'--pointing to the chest--'take it or leave it.'
'I shall leave it, sir, with all due respect.'
A frightful change came over the old man's face at this determined
refusal. His eyes glowered at Lord Hartfield under the heavy scowling
brows; his bloodless lips worked convulsively.
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