“You did splendidly, Miss Ashton,” declared Bristow warmly. “I was afraid you would allow them to enter.”
Before Mabel could reply there came the sound of voices outside. One, raised in anger, was that of Mr. Willing. A moment later, followed by Colonel Ashton and Dick, he entered the room.
His gaze fell upon Henry Bristow.
“So,” he growled, “it’s you they’re after, eh?”
“Yes, sir,” returned Bristow quietly.
“Well, you sit down over there, young man,” said Mr. Willing, pointing to a chair. “I’m going to tell you a few things, and I don’t care whether you like them or not.”
CHAPTER VIII.—THEIR FIRST QUARREL.
Shirley and Mabel glanced at Mr. Willing in surprise. Young Bristow took the seat indicated, and the others also sat down.
“First,” said Mr. Willing to Bristow, “I am going to ask you a question or two. If you refuse to answer, I shall, of course, draw my own conclusions.”
The young man nodded.