The Canon flushed at this appeal and was nearly put out of countenance. He wondered if he should fly into a passion and order Railing out of the house. But it was doubtful whether the Socialist would go. He was a little disconcerted, too, by the steadfastness with which Bertram had resisted him, and the scorn wherewith he brushed aside his specious reasons. Canon Spratte was hot with anger. The taunts to which he had calmly listened, rankled in his heart, and he would have been pleased to show that none could thus treat him with impunity. But he seldom lost his temper unadvisedly, and he realized now that calmness gave him a decided advantage over the angry and excited suitor. “Are you quite sure that Winnie cares for you?” he asked, mildly. “As sure as I am of my own name and of my own life.” There was a pause. The Canon for a minute walked up and down the room; and then, holding himself very erect, stood still in front of Bertram. His voice was full of authority. “Well, it is my painful duty to inform you that you are mistaken. Winnie recognizes that she misjudged the strength of her affection.” “I don’t believe it,” said Railing, full of scorn. “My patience must be inexhaustible. I am much tempted to kick you downstairs, Mr. Railing.” “You forget that I’m a working-man and horny-handed, so it’s safer not to try.” “It evidently hasn’t occurred to you that the manners of Peckham Rye are not altogether suitable to South Kensington,” smiled the Canon, blandly. “Well?” “Winnie has requested me to tell you that she finds she does not care for you enough to marry you. She regrets the inconvenience and unhappiness that she has caused, and desires you to release her.” Bertram grew white and he gathered himself together as a wild beast might, driven to bay. “It’s a lie!” he cried, furiously. “It’s a lie!” The Canon replied with the utmost calm. “You will have the goodness to remember that I am a minister of the Church and a son of the late Lord Chancellor of England.” “If it’s true, you’ve forced her to give me up. I _know_ she loves me.” “You may think what you choose, Mr. Railing. The fact remains that she wishes to break off her engagement with you. As a man of honour there is obviously but one course open to you.” “You tell me I’m a man of honour and you treat me like a lackey. Do you think you can dismiss me like a servant? Don’t you know that my whole life’s happiness is at stake? She can’t send me away like that. It’s not true, it’s not true.” “On my honour as a gentleman, I have told you the exact truth,” replied Canon Spratte, gravely. Bertram seized the Canon’s arm. “Let her tell me herself. I must see her. Where is she?” “She’s gone out.” “But she knew I was coming here to-day. She expected me.” “Doesn’t that show you that what I have said is the simple truth? I wished to spare you both a painful scene.”