“We’re not discussing that,” said Frank. “I was forced to this to defend myself without getting into a disgraceful fight with you here in the presence of the girls.”
“You may have a chance to defend yourself before you leave Baltimore,” declared Fillmore significantly.
“I presume you mean that you are going to force me into a fight. Well, forewarned is forearmed. I’ll try to be ready for you.”
“See that you are!”
In vain Inza tried to interpose and pacify Fillmore.
“You can’t blame me,” he said. “You know why I hate him. I have a right to hate him!”
“You are not gaining favor in my eyes by such disgraceful behavior.”
These words from Inza’s lips were enough to open Merry’s eyes to the true situation. His faith in Inza was absolute, but he knew Fillmore had been trying to pay her attentions. This and the fact that Mrs. Loder was Fillmore’s sister made the matter most embarrassing.
Merry saw at once that it would be necessary to take Inza from that house as soon as possible.
“Please, Fred,” entreated Elsie; “please, for my sake, don’t make any more trouble here!”