That afternoon, Stapleton himself came to the Hall to apologize for
his rudeness. He had a long private interview with Sir Henry, and
invited us to dine at Merripit House next Friday. Sir Henry still
thought him crazy but accepted his apology. Stapleton's explanation
had been that he was very close to his sister and had been greatly
shocked when he realized that he might lose her. He had nothing against
the baronet himself, but he asked for time to come to terms with the
matter. He would withdraw all opposition upon his part if Sir Henry
would promise for three months to let the matter rest and to be
content with cultivating the lady's friendship during that time
without claiming her love.
Sir Henry had promised.
With that mystery cleared up, I pass on to the next thread which
