"Well, Mr. Hale," said Mallow coldly, "why have you come?"
The lawyer, who was in an evening suit and dressed with taste
and care, took a seat, although not invited to do so. He
looked cold and calm, but there was an excited gleam in his
large eyes which showed that his calmness masked some emotion,
the cause of which Cuthbert could not fathom. "I have come to
see you about young Saxon," he said.
"Really," answered Mallow coolly, although surprised, "what
can you have to say to me about him."
"He is your friend--"
"Pardon me. I can hardly call him so. We are acquaintances
only."
"But you are engaged to his sister," persisted Hale.
Mallow threw away the cigarette he was lighting and jumped up.
"I see no reason why Miss Saxon's name should be mentioned,
Mr. Hale."
"Don't you, Mr. Mallow? I do."
"Then I object to your mentioning it. State your business and
go, Mr. Hale. I have no acquaintance with you."
"I can't state my business unless I mention Miss Saxon's
name."
"Then you will please to take yourself off," said Mallow.
Hale smiled coldly, though evidently annoyed. "I think it is
to your interest to hear me," he said deliberately, "and to
the interest of the lady whom you hope to call your wife."
"Does this business concern Miss Saxon?"
"Indirectly it does. But it rather has to do with her
brother."
Mallow frowned. The conversation was taking a turn of which
he did not approve.
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