"That's a vile trick! I make the best throw, and you force me to fight."
"Ah," said the other, facing slowly about and putting on his hat. "I didn't see it in that light. Very well, Jack, I decline to fight you."
"You apologise?"
"Certainly."
The little man held out a hand. "I might have known, Jemmy, you were too good a fellow—" he began.
"Oh, stow away your pretty speeches and take back your hand. I can't prevent your playing the fool with Meg's child; but if I had a decent excuse, you may make up your mind I'd use it. As it is, the sight of you annoys me. Good morning!"
He went out, slamming the door after him, and they heard him descend the stairs and turn down the street.
"A day's peace," mused Captain Barker, "strikes me as more expensive than a year's war. It has cost me my two dearest friends."
He strode up and down the room muttering angrily; then looked up and said:
"Take me to Meg; I want to see her."