this discussion by saying that you are a liar. I will merely say
that, at all events, I am not afraid to meet you now or any other
time, here or any other where.'

The effects of this daring speech was much the same as if a
thunderbolt had fallen out of the heavens among the party. As Roland
concluded he rose from the table and placed his back against the bluff
face of the boulder. The chief did not reply or make any demonstration
of violence as they all evidently imagined that he would. Murfrey
looked meaningly at his captain; and then rushing from the table,
approached our hero. He had his hand in his hip pocket, and there was
a gleam of brutal ferocity in his face. Roland immediately drew his
pistol.

'Ruffian,' he cried, 'I am always prepared. If you make one step
further you fall where you stand. I am not afraid of you, nor of your
captain, nor of any one, or of _all_, your bloody band. I seek
no quarrel with anybody; my great wish is to avoid quarrel; but as
you choose, one and all, to insult me, and to attempt my life, this
is my only course.' The robber was dumbfounded, but he was speedily
recalled to his senses by his chief.

'We will deal with this fellow at some other time. I have a different
matter on hand now. Take this rope and fasten an end of it to his
arm,' pointing to The Lifter.

The poor wretch knew that some horrible punishment was in store for
him, and his face grew deadly pale. Otherwise he showed no sign of
terror.