Neil Gordon had stepped from behind the trees and stood confronting him , with blazing eyes , and lips which writhed in emotion so great that at first it prevented him from speaking . With a thrill of dismay Eric instantly understood what must have taken place . Neil had discovered that he and Kilmeny had been meeting in the orchard , and beyond doubt had carried that tale to Janet and Thomas Gordon . He realized how unfortunate it was that this should have happened before he had had time to make his own explanation . It would probably prejudice Kilmeny 's guardians still further against him . At this point in his thoughts Neil 's pent up passion suddenly found vent in a burst of wild words . `` So you 've come to meet her again . But she is n't here -- you 'll never see her again ! I hate you -- I hate you -- I hate you ! '' His voice rose to a shrill scream . He took a furious step nearer Eric as if he would attack him . Eric looked steadily in his eyes with a calm defiance , before which his wild passion broke like foam on a rock . `` So you have been making trouble for Kilmeny , Neil , have you ? '' said Eric contemptuously . `` I suppose you have been playing the spy . And I suppose that you have told her uncle and aunt that she has been meeting me here . Well , you have saved me the trouble of doing it , that is all . I was going to tell them myself , tonight . I do n't know what your motive in doing this has been . Was it jealousy of me ?
Or have you done it out of malice to XXXXX ? ''
Eric Gordon Janet Kilmeny Neil attack doubt first motive pent