The Marquis of Hastings obviously didn't expect Arthur to use such decisive terms. After all, he knew very well that the relative sitting in front of him was one of the best in the country at evading direct confrontation.
Moreover, according to normal logic, most people, when faced with such a significant matter, would distance themselves as long as they could clear themselves of responsibility, treating it as none of their concern.
Yet Arthur actually chose to take a proactive stand, this...
The Marquis of Hastings sighed deeply and shook his head slightly, saying, "I'm sorry, Arthur. I really shouldn't have... I... I can't believe I doubted you earlier... You're right, Flora has always been our family's pride, and she could never do anything to disgrace the family name, absolutely never!"
The Marquis of Hastings thought Arthur's support for Flora stemmed from familial ties, and perhaps there was a touch of personal emotion involved, which certainly wasn't wrong.
