WYLDER'S HAJVD.
469
her at Redman's Farm. It was a frank and passionate
denial of the slander, breathing undefinably, but irresisti-
bly, the spirit of truth.
'; Then am I to understand, in conclusion," said the
attorney, "that defying all consequences, the Rev. Mr.
Wylder refuses to execute the deed of sale?"
"Certainly," said Lord Chelford, taking this reply upon
himself.
"You know, my dear Mr. Wylder, I told you from the
first that Messrs. Burlington and Smith were, in fact, a
very sharp house; and I fear they will execute any powers
they possess in the most summary manner." The attor-
ney's eye was upon the Vicar as he spoke, but Lord Chel-
ford answered.
"The powers you speak of are quite without parallel
in a negotiation to purchase; and in the event of their
hazarding such a measure, the Rev. Mr. Wylder will ap-
ply to a court of equity to arrest their proceedings. My
own solicitor is retained in the case."
Mr. Larkin's countenance darkened and lengthened
visibly, and his eyes assumed their most unpleasant ex-
pression, and there was a little pause, during which, for-
getting his lofty ways, he bit his thumb-nail rather vi-
ciously.
"Then I am to understand, my Lord, that I am super-
seded in the management of this case?" said the attorney
at last, in a measured way, which seemed to say, "you
had better think twice on this point."
"Certainly, Mr. Larkin," said the Viscount.
"I'm not the least surprised, knowing, I am sorry to
say, a good deal of the ways of the world, and expecting
very little gratitude, for either good will or services."
This was accompanied with a melancholy sneer directed
full upon the poor Vicar, who did not half understand the
situation, and looked rather guilty and frightened. "The