In this way the two passed every day the hour from twelve to one.
Neither could have said why they walked thus, for Mr. Pendyce had a
horror of idleness, and the spaniel John disliked the scent of irises;
both, in fact, obeyed that part of themselves which is superior to
reason. During this hour, too, Mrs. Pendyce, though longing to walk
between her flowers, also obeyed that part of her, superior to reason,
which told her that it would be better not.
But George's answer came at last.
"STOICS' CLUB.
"DEAR FATHER,
"Yes, Bellew is bringing a suit. I am taking steps in the matter. As to
the promise you ask for, I can give no promise of the sort. You may tell
Bellew I will see him d---d first.
"Your affectionate son,
"GEORGE PENDYCE."
Mr. Pendyce received this at the breakfast-table, and while he read it
there was a hush, for all had seen the handwriting on the envelope.
Mr. Pendyce read it through twice, once with his glasses on and once
without, and when he had finished the second reading he placed it in his
breast pocket. No word escaped him; his eyes, which had sunk a little
the last few days, rested angrily on his wife's white face. Bee and
Norah looked down, and, as if they understood, the four dogs were still.
Mr. Pendyce pushed his plate back, rose, and left the room.
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