He was offended.

I had heard, proceeded I, that a change of measures was resolved on. I
knew that the treatment before had been all gentle, condescending,
indulgent. I received but yesterday letters from my father, signifying
his intention of speedily recalling me to my native country. I shall set
out very soon for Paris, where I hope to meet with his more direct
commands for this long-desired end. What may be my destiny, I know not;
but I shall carry with me a heart burdened with the woes of this family,
and distressed for the beloved daughter of it. But let me bespeak you
all, for your own sakes, (mine is out of the question: I presume not upon
any hope on my own account,) that you will treat this angelic-minded lady
with tenderness. I pretend to say, that I know that harsh or severe
methods will not do.

The general arose from his seat, and, with a countenance of fervor, next
to fierceness--Let me tell you, Grandison, said he--

I arose from mine, and going to Lady Sforza, who sat next him, he stopt,
supposing me going to him, and seemed surprised, and attentive to my
motions: but, disregarding him, I addressed myself to that lady. You,
madam, are the aunt of Lady Clementina: the tender, the indulgent mother
is absent, and has declared, that she resigns her will to the will of her
friends present--Allow me to supplicate, that former measures may not be
changed with her. Great dawnings of returning reason did I discover in
our last interview. Her delicacy (never was there a more delicate mind)
wanted but to be satisfied. It was satisfied, and she began to be easy.
Were her mind but once composed, the sense she has of her duty, and what
she owes to her religion, would restore her to your wishes: but if she
should be treated harshly, (though I am sure, if she should, it would be