very plain; for the landlord's countenance steadily lost color,
and became overcast with alarm. With that evil delight which some
men take in giving pain, others, seeing Slade's anxious looks,
joined in the persecution, and soon made the landlord's case look
black enough; and the landlord himself almost as frightened as a
criminal just under arrest.

"It's bad business, and no mistake," said one.

"Yes, bad enough. I wouldn't be in his shoes for his coat,"
remarked another.

"For his coat? No, not for his whole wardrobe," said a third.

"Nor for the 'Sickle and Sheaf thrown into the bargain," added a
fourth.

"It will be a clear case of manslaughter, and no mistake. What is
the penalty?"

"From two to ten years in the penitentiary," was readily answered.

"They'll give him five. I reckon."

"No--not more than two. It will be hard to prove malicious
intention."

"I don't know that. I've heard him curse the girl and threaten her
many a time. Haven't you?"