"Ah, that is only because you thought he made you a little more
conspicuous than you liked by his attentions to you, Isobel."
"No, indeed, uncle; that was very silly and ridiculous, but I did
not like the man himself, putting that aside altogether. It was
like talking to a man with a mask on: it gave me a creepy feeling.
It did not seem to me that one single word he said was sincere,
but that he was acting; and over and over again as he was talking
I said to myself, 'What is this man really like? I know he is not
the least bit in the world what he pretends to be. But what is the
reality?' I felt just the same as I should if I had one of those
great snakes they bring to our veranda coiling round me. The
creature might look quiet enough, but I should know that if it were
to tighten it would crush me in a moment."
The Major and Mrs. Hunter both laughed at her earnestness, but the
Doctor said gravely, "Is that really how you felt about him when he
was talking to you, Miss Hannay? I am sorry to hear you say that.
I own that my opinion has been that of everyone here, that the
Rajah is a good fellow and a firm friend of the Europeans, and my
only doubt has arisen from the fact that it was unnatural he should
like us when he has considerable grounds for grievance against us.
We have always relied upon his influence, which is great among his
countrymen, being thrown entirely into the scale on our side if
any trouble should ever arise; but I own that what you say makes
me doubt him.
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