You had better, therefore, withdraw your
pretensions."

"What means this interruption, Lieutenant Harland?" said Sir Henry. "My
pretensions to Louise are founded on ties far above your power to
controvert or forbid!"

Passion gleamed in the eyes of Harland; and Frederick, fearing a quarrel
would ensue, entreated they would cease the subject, and return to the
company: but Sir Henry declared he was too much indisposed to experience
pleasure in society. Harland, whose jealousy had induced him to follow
Sir Henry, to demand an explanation of his words, concluding the attempt
would prove ineffectual, yielded to the remonstrances of Frederick, and
returned to the gentle Louise; yet, the idea of Sir Henry's application
to the Marchioness, and the fear that his overtures would be accepted,
added poignancy to his torments. Harland determined, however, if
possible, to frustrate his design; accordingly, as soon as the company
returned on shore, he sought Sir Henry, and demanded a conference; this
was refused; and he passed the night in reflections ill calculated to
calm the passion which rage and jealousy had excited.

In the morning Sir Henry was taking advantage of the earliest boat, when
Harland, who had been watching his appearance, hurried after him, and
springing into it, declared he should not go unaccompanied. Sir Henry
could not conceal his chagrin, but, seating himself in silence, they
were conveyed on shore.

Meanwhile, Frederick, anxious to prevent the consequences he apprehended
from the passionate Harland, as soon as he rose, went to his cabin, to
exert his influence in conciliating the jealous difference: but, being
informed he was gone on shore with Sir Henry, and missing his pistols,
he hastened to his uncle, and, acquainting him with the preceding
transactions, begged he would permit him to follow them, to prevent
hostilities. The Captain said he was too well assured of Sir Henry's
forbearance to fear a duel: he rather supposed they were gone to the
Marchioness, whither ordering the barge, he immediately proceeded,
accompanied by Frederick: but Sir Henry and Harland had not been there.

On being landed, Harland took Sir Henry by the arm, and, conducting him
from the town, asked if he recollected the sentiments he had avowed the
preceding evening: these the Lieutenant repeated, at the same time
declaring he would oppose every pretension for the favour of Louise, and
more especially from him, whom he hated!