"Ah! I see I am mistaken," he replied. "I deemed, sir, you had ventured hither in order to seek me and to demand satisfaction for my behaviour towards your sister. But since——"
"Will you have the goodness to explain, sir," interrupted the prisoner fiercely.
The captain smiled calmly.
"Egad! I confess 'twas a somewhat low piece of work. But the wench was so exasperating and withal so pretty. And I give you my word," he added with a cynical laugh, "she showed no over-great reluctance to my kisses."
The prisoner sprang to his feet, his fists clenched, his eyes blazing with passion.
"May Heaven have mercy on you, sir, but 'tis a most dastardly lie."
"Heaven will need have mercy on you my friend, if you give the lie so freely," answered the captain coldly. "But perchance you are willing to fight now, sir, unless"—with a laugh—"you have smaller regard for your sister's reputation than I surmised."
"Now, by Heaven! you shall swallow your words," cried the youth, white with fury.
Captain Protheroe rose.
"I am at your service," he answered coolly. "I have two rapiers handy, there is no time like the present, and as for place, why this chamber will serve as well as anywhere."