Ware went from the cabin, and as the door swung shut Fentress
faced Murrell across the table.

"I've gone as far with you in this affair as I can go; after all,
as you say, it is a private matter. You reap the benefits--you
and Tom between you--I shall give you a wide berth until you come
to your senses. Frankly, if you think that in this late day in
the world you can carry off an unwilling girl, your judgment is
faulty."

"Hold on, Colonel--how do you know she is going to prove
unwilling?" objected Murrell, grinning.

Fentress gave him a glance of undisguised contempt and rose from
his seat.

"I admit your past successes, John--that is, I take your word for
them--but Miss Malroy is a lady."

"I have heard enough!" said Murrell angrily.

"So have I, John," retorted the colonel in a tone that was
unvexed but final, "and I shall count it a favor if you will
never refer to her in my hearing." He moved in the direction of
the door.

"Oh, you and I are not going to lose our tempers over this!"
began Murrell. "Come, sit down again, Colonel!" he concluded
with great good nature.