THE QUARREL. 147

what possible object I could have in do-
ing so.” |

Mertoun was silenced, but not con-
vinced. His anger was not in the least
abated; but he had no pretext for disbe-
lieving Charles’s assertion. |

“ But,” said Warbeck, after a short si-
lence, “your breakfast is quite spoiled
by this unlucky upset. Let me go down
stairs, and try to get some more for
you?” |
“No, I thank you,” replied Mertoun,
not over graciously ; “TI have had enough
of it already.” |

‘ Knough! why, you have scarcely tast-
ed it, Harry.”

“I wish you would not persist in con-
tradicting every word I say, Warbeck,”
rejoined Mertoun, with still greater irri-
tation in his tone. “I do not want any