"The impudent coxcomb!" exclaimed Lord Strathern.

Conway started. But Lady Mabel started as if a snake had bitten
her. She said nothing, however; perhaps she could not had she
tried. But Conway exclaimed: "My lord, perhaps I did not hear you
rightly."

"You did Major Conway. I say that L'Isle is an impudent coxcomb. The
most presumptuous fellow I know. I will find or make an occasion to
give him a lesson he much needs."

"Why, my lord, what has L'Isle done?" asked the Major.

"Done!" said Lord Strathern angrily. "He has said a great deal more
than I will tolerate." And, having broached the subject, he told the
story of L'Isle's interview with himself, and his remarks to
Bradshawe, pronouncing his whole conduct presumptuous and impertinent.
Losing his temper more and more, he exclaimed: "Sir Rowland's absurd
partiality has spoiled the fellow utterly!"

"Sir Rowland must not bear all the blame," said Bradshawe,
interposing; then added slyly: "No wonder L'Isle's head is turned,
considering who all have helped to spoil him."

"So they have; and you have spoiled him more than any one else,"
exclaimed Lord Strathern turning suddenly on Lady Mabel. "I hear of
nobody but Colonel L'Isle. This Colonel of yours has been growing more
and more intolerable--