Had Aubrey been, instead of the mere pauper he really was, and in the presence of one whom he knew to be able to cast him instantly into prison, at that moment in the position he had formerly occupied, of wealth and greatness, he could not have spoken with an air of more dignified determination, and even _hauteur_: which Gammon perceived, and fully appreciated.
"I am undoubtedly aware, sir, of the disparity between Miss Aubrey and myself in point of position," said he, coldly.
"I have said nothing of the kind that I am aware of, nor would I, on any account, say anything offensive to you, Mr. Gammon; but it is my duty to speak explicitly and decisively. I therefore now beg you to understand that your overtures must not, in any shape, or at any time, be renewed; and this I must insist upon without assigning or suggesting any reason whatever."
Gammon listened attentively and silently.
"I presume, Mr. Gammon, that I cannot be misunderstood?" added Mr. Aubrey, with a very perceptibly increased peremptoriness of manner.
"It would be difficult to misunderstand what you say, sir," replied Gammon, in whose dark bosom Mr. Aubrey's words had, as it were, stung and roused the serpent PRIDE--which might have been seen with crest erect, and glaring eyes. But Mr. Gammon's external manner was calm and subdued.
"It gives me pain to be forced to add, Mr. Gammon," continued Mr. Aubrey, "that after what has taken place, we all of us feel--that--it will be better for you to discontinue your visits at my house. I am sure your own sense of delicacy will appreciate the necessity which exists for such a suggestion on my part?"
"I perfectly understand you, Mr. Aubrey," replied Gammon, in the same grave and guarded manner which he had preserved throughout their interview. "I shall offer no apology, sir, for conduct which I do not feel to require one. I conceive that I had a perfect right to make, with all due deference and respect, the offer which it appears has given you so much offence; for reasons, it may be, which justify you, but which I cannot speculate upon, nor do I wish to do so. It is impossible ever to see Miss Aubrey without becoming sensible of her loveliness, both of person and character. I have paid them homage: for the rest, the issue is simply--unfortunate. While I may not feel disposed, even if inclined, to disregard your strict and solemn injunctions, I take leave to say that my feelings towards Miss Aubrey cannot alter; and if in no _other_ way they can be gratified, there is yet _one_ which"--here he looked greatly moved, and changed color--"yet remains open to me, to exhibit my regard for her in a tenfold anxiety to preserve her--to preserve all of you, Mr. Aubrey, from the approach of difficulty and danger. That much Miss Aubrey may have also told to you, of what passed between us yesterday." He paused--from emotion apparently; but he was only considering intently whether he should endeavor to _ascertain_ if Mr. Aubrey had been put by his sister in possession of his--Gammon's, last communication to her; and then, however that might be, whether he should himself break the matter to Mr. Aubrey. But he decided both questions in the negative, and proceeded, with a little excitement of manner--"There _are_ dangers menacing you, I grieve to say, Mr. Aubrey, of the most serious description, which I may possibly be unable to avert from you! I fear I am losing that hold _upon others_ which has enabled me hitherto to save you from rapacity and oppression! I regret to say that I can _answer_ for others no longer; but all that man can do, still will I do. I have been most bitterly--most fearfully disappointed; but you shall ever find me a man of my word--of as high and rigid honor, perhaps, even, Mr. Aubrey, as yourself"--he paused, and felt that he had made an impression on his silent auditor--"and I hereby pledge myself, in the presence of God, that so far as in _me_ lies, there shall not a hair of any of your heads be touched." Again he paused. "I wish, Mr. Aubrey, you knew the pressure which has been for some time upon me--nay, even this very morning"----he cast a melancholy and reluctant eye towards the letters which he had gathered up, and which he had placed beside him on the breakfast-table--"I have received a letter--here it is--I know the handwriting; I almost dread to open it." Mr. Aubrey changed color.