"What do I care about his family, so long as I know him to be a noble fellow! You forget, sir, that he has twice saved my life!"
"No, I have not forgotten. I do not blame you for being grateful, but you must know the whole truth about him. Frank Merriwell is a gambler—he plays cards for money."
"I don't believe it!" were the words that came from Inza's lips, and sent a thrill of shame through the lad behind the tree.
"But it is true, and I can prove it. I will prove it, too! If I prove it to your satisfaction, Miss Burrage, will you cut the fellow, and have nothing to do with him in the future?"
Frank leaned forward, holding his breath, eager to hear the answer.
It came promptly and decisively:
"No!"
Gage caught his breath.
"Do you mean to say you will still be friends with a regular gambler like Merriwell?" he asked.
"I do not believe Frank Merriwell is a gambler—you can never make me believe it!"