roared the judge, giving way to an uncontrollable burst of
feeling. "I did it--and I can 'do it again--light the candle,
Hannibal!"

He began to load the pistols afresh with feverish haste, and
Mahaffy, staring at him in amazement, saw that of a sudden the
sweat was dripping from him. But the judge's excitement
prevented his attempting another shot at once, twice his hand was
raised, twice it was lowered, the third time the pistol cracked
and the candle's flame was blown level, fluttered for a brief
instant, and went out.

"Did I nick the tallow, Hannibal?" The judge spoke anxiously.

"Yes, sir, both shots."

"We must remedy that," said the judge. Then, as rapidly as he
could load and fire, bullet after bullet was sent fairly through
the flame, extinguishing it each time. Mahaffy was too
astonished at this display of skill even to comment, while
Hannibal's delight knew no bounds. "That will do!" said the
judge at last. He glanced down at the pistol in his hand. "This
is certainly a gentleman's weapon!" he murmured.




CHAPTER XX

THE WARNING