I would recommend
your lordship to instruct your lawyers to appear to this writ
as a matter of course. But enter into no details, no
unnecessary confidence with them. They are needless. Treat
the matter lightly, especially to them. You will hear no more
of it."
"You feel confidence?"
"Perfect. Walter Gerard has no documents of any kind.
Whatever his claim might be, good or bad, the only evidence
that can prove his pedigree is in your possession and the only
use to which it ever will be put, will be in due time to seat
your grandson in the House of Lords."
"I am glad I called upon you," said Lord Mowbray.
"To be sure. Your lordship can speak to me without reserve,
and I am used to these start-ups. It is part of the trade;
but an old soldier is not to be deceived by such feints."
"Clearly a feint, you think?"
"A feint! a feint."
"Good morning. I am glad I have called. How goes on my
friend Sir Vavasour?"
"Oh! I shall land him at last."
"Well, he is an excellent, neighbourly, man. I have a great
respect for Sir Vavasour. Would you dine with me, Mr Hatton,
on Thursday? It would give me and Lady de Mowbray great
pleasure."
"Your lordship is extremely kind," said Mr Hatton bowing with
a slight sarcastic smile, "but I am an hermit.
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