"Cruickshank? Yes, we are partners in a way," replied Ned.
"And you know it was his brother you laid out? Faith, you laid him out as nate as if it was for a berryin'," he added with a grin.
"I've heard men say that the colonel is Bub Cruickshank's brother," admitted Ned; "but the colonel is all right, whatever Bub is."
"And you and he ain't had no turn-up along of that scrimmage down at Westminster?" persisted O'Halloran.
"Not a word. I don't think he knew about it."
"Oh yes, he did. I saw Bub and him talking it over, and you may bet your boots the only reason he didn't bark is that he means to bite—yes, and bite hard too. It's the way with them dark, down-looking blagyards," added the honest Irishman, in a tone of the deepest scorn.
"Ah, well, I don't think Cruickshank is likely to try his teeth on me," laughed Ned. "If he does I must try that favourite rib-bender of yours upon him," and Ned gripped O'Halloran's hand and strode gaily after his train.
For a moment the red-headed one stood looking after his friend, and then heaving a great sigh remarked:
"Indade and I'd like a turn wid you mesilf, but if that black-looking blagyard does a happorth of harm to you, it's Kornaylius O'Halloran as 'll put a head on him."