You called me Alec just now,' Guthrie said. 'If I have dispensation to do the same, let me say it. Francis Crawford, I wish you away from this country; and if I had the hearing of a friend, and not that of the Voevoda Bolshoia, I would tell you never to come back.' Abandoned by artifice, Lymond's face exposed, for an instant, his astonishment. 'Of course you may speak,' he said. 'At this moment … but why? I cannot see why?' 'I know you cannot see why,' said Alec Guthrie. 'You saw it when you fought Graham Malett. You saw it in France and in Malta. You saw it clearest of all at home among your own people.' Lymond said sharply, 'That will do.
Alec Guthrie addresses Francis Crawford, also known as Lymond, expressing strong disapproval and suggesting he leave the country. Guthrie's words indicate a deep concern or discontent with Lymond's presence, implying a desire for him to go far away and never return, hinting at past conflicts or issues that have caused such feelings.
Lymond, momentarily caught off guard and revealing his surprise, questions why Guthrie is speaking so openly. Guthrie then references previous events, including fights and experiences in France and Malta, emphasizing that Lymond’s actions and behavior have been apparent and scrutinized, especially among his own people, revealing a history of tension and mistrust.
