"You might win a certain share of these wagers," smiled the young
officer, willing to pass by a possible argument. "Moreover, I am
quite willing to discuss arrangements for changing the term of
servitude of this young lady. I've been doing a little thinking
about one or two matters since this morning."

"What!"

"Quite right. I wouldn't care to restrain her in any way, if she
cared to travel in other company. Our work is well advanced toward
completion, as it is."

"Yet you came here with her? Then what--?"

"Never mind what the relation may have been, my dear fellow. It
irks me now. Especially does this sort of conversation irk me,
because it is not fair to the young lady herself."

Dunwody drew in his breath with a strong sigh. He sat up straight
in his chair, then rested an arm on the table, as he leaned forward
toward the other. "A young lady has had a poor protector who would
not protect her name. Of course!"

"In any case," smiled Carlisle, forcing the frown away from his
face, "my fortunes need mending now. Do you think I could continue
a journey down the river in company so strong at cards as yours?
At a later time, if you like, I will endeavor to get my revenge."

"Suppose you have it now," said Dunwody calmly. "Haven't you just
heard me say I haven't the means?"