At this juncture, as if prearranged, Obadiah Strout suddenly emerged from the grocery store.
"What's the matter, gentlemen?" asked Mr. Strout.
"Well," said Wood, "I told this young man what you said he said, and he says you're a liar."
"Well," said Strout pompously, "I know that he said it and I have witnesses to prove it. When you settle with him for calling you a jackass I'll settle with him for calling me a liar."
"Take your coat off, Mr. Sawyer, and get ready. I won't keep you waitin' but a few moments," said Bob.
A jeering laugh went up from the crowd. Quincy, turning, saw Hiram.
"Here, Hiram," said he, "hold my things."
He took off his overcoat and then his black Prince Albert coat and passed them to Hiram. Then he removed his hat, which he also handed to Hiram.
Turning to Wood he said, "Come right out here, Mr. Wood; here is a place where the sun has kindly removed the snow and we can get a good footing."
Wood followed him, and the crowd formed a ring about them.