“That is true. But her father is an invalid, and I believe this Lord Stanford has used undue influence in persuading him to force Inza into this marriage. In London I was able to save Mr. Burrage and Inza from being blown to pieces by an anarchist’s bomb. It is not likely that he has forgotten this. It may be that I would have some influence with him myself.”
“It is possible,” admitted Harry; “but even your influence might fail.”
“In that case,” declared Frank, “I should try to resort to more desperate means.”
“It is dangerous, Merry—very dangerous. Since reaching California we have escaped from one danger by the tin of our skeeth—I mean by the skin of our teeth. Even now there is a possibility that Hodge may be arrested.”
Frank scowled a little, but nodded slowly.
“I know it,” he acknowledged, “but in two days Hodge will be on the sea bound for Honolulu. He is to take passage on a steamer that leaves day after to-morrow. It is this girl I am thinking about, now, Rattle.”
“Girls have caused you any amount of trouble, Merry.”
“I know that, and I am willing that this girl should cause me any amount more.”
“Then it must be that you are still in love with her. This is the girl you care about more than any other.”
“I don’t know,” said Frank, slowly. “It may be. I have not seen her in a long time, and I have seen many other girls, for some of whom I have had more than a passing fancy.”