Thus far I can believe that your conduct has
been inspired by the truest and most manly impulses. But if in
any way you again have aught to do with Mr. Sibley, I shall feel
deeply wounded and humiliated. I refuse to be associated with that
man, even in the remotest degree. Your delicate sense of honor will
teach you that if any further trouble grows out of this affair no
effort on your part can separate my name from it. The world rarely
distinguishes between a gentlemanly quarrel and a vulgar brawl,
especially where one of the parties is essentially vulgar. As a
gentleman you will surely shield me from any such associations."
Stanton, remembering his appointment with Sibley, bowed low to hide
his confusion.
"I would gladly shield you with my life from anything that could
cause you pain," he said, earnestly.
"I do not make any such vast and tragic demands," she replied,
smilingly, and holding out her hand; "only simple and prosaic
self-control, when tipsy, vulgar men act according to their nature.
Good-night."
He was about to kiss her hand, when she gently withdrew it, remarking:
"We plain people of New England are not descended from the Cavaliers,
remember.
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