"He may have remarked that I admired you, Miss Van Hoosen," he exclaimed. "But he was quite unwarranted in saying what he did. If he attempts to pick a quarrel with me, let him beware."
"That is precisely what I want you to avoid," she replied.
"No matter; the days of dueling are not yet over. In France a man can seek satisfaction for his wounded honor."
"Let me beg and pray of you, to keep away from Lord Maltravers."
"I can make no promise."
"Remember that people tell strange tales of him. He has resided much in Italy and I have heard that he keeps a Neapolitan assassin in his pay."
Jack laughed heartily at this.
"I am not a child to be scared by such stories as that," he answered. "But if it will relieve your mind, I will undertake to be on my guard."
This was all Miss Van Hoosen could obtain from him, and she was very uneasy in her mind, when he rose to take his leave. He was much gratified with the result of his visit. For Lord Maltravers he did not care a snap of the fingers; but he was delighted to think that Lena Van Hoosen thought enough of him to send for and warn him of a danger which she fancied he was menaced with.
When he left the house, he walked slowly toward the club, where he knew he would meet some of his friends.