“That’s dead easy. Of course I forgive you. Think I’m a stiff to hold a grudge over a little matter like that?”
Diamond looked his admiration from his bloodshot eyes.
“You’re all right, Merry,” he hoarsely declared. “You always were all right. I knew it all along. Sometimes I get nasty, for I have a jealous nature, although I try to hold it in check. I never did try to hold myself in check in any way till I knew you and saw how you controlled your tastes and passions. That was a revelation to me, Merry. You know I hated you at first, but I came to admire you, despite myself. I have admired you ever since. Sometimes the worst side of my nature will crop out, but I always know I am wrong. Forgive me for striking you.”
“There, there, old chap! Why are you thinking of such silly things? You are talking as if you had done me a deadly wrong, and this was your last chance to square yourself.”
“It is my last chance—I am sure of that. I am played out, and I can’t drive that wheel farther. It’s no use—I throw up the sponge right here.”
A look of determination came to Frank’s face.
“You shall not do anything of the kind!” he cried. “I won’t have it, Jack!”
Diamond did not reply, but lay limp on the ground. Frank put a firm hand on his shoulder, saying:
“Come, Jack, make a bluff at it.”
“No use!”