But she had succeeded in her object, and Gabriel’s feet missed Jones’ head by the fraction of an inch.
Shirley clung tightly to the halter.
For an instant Gabriel’s eyes continued to flame, but after one quick glance at the girl who had him, he became quiet. His nostrils still quivered with anger, but the fire had left his eyes. He stood perfectly still.
Leonard bent over the still form of Jones. Stooping, he lifted the man’s head to his knee, and at the same moment Jones’ consciousness returned.
He took in the scene before him, and staggered to his feet, blood covering his face. He glanced once at the faces about him, and then made for the door.
Mr. Willing intercepted him.
“I have had enough of you. The next time you cross my path I shall turn you over to the authorities. I have a notion to do it right now. Get out of my place, and stay out!”
Without a word, Jones slunk to the door and disappeared.
“Where is Mabel?” demanded Mr. Ashton in great anxiety, at this juncture.
Mabel was not in sight.