Victoria obeyed, standing back against the wall, pale and frightened, while the last comer confronted the burly tramp with his rifle cocked for instant use.
"Let me go out, August Bordine."
So the tramp seemed to recognize the youthful hunter.
"I ought to turn you over to the authorities for punishment," declared the young man, sternly.
"'T won't do you no good," grunted the tramp, "I hain't done nothing."
"I will leave it to Miss Vane."
Then he glanced at the girl.
The tramp began to glide toward the door.
"Stop!" thundered August Bordine. Then to the girl, "Miss Vane, I await your decision."
"Permit him to go then. I wish no further trouble," said Victoria.