"Because the rules was drawn for respectable, law-abiding people," answered Mr. Fogo.
They wrangled on, while David and Bartley spoke aside.
"Did you say that Miss Rhoda was really interested?" asked Crocker. "I shouldn't like to think that, David. I know I kissed her, like a silly fool, in the Pixies' House that day of the storm; but she don't bear malice, I hope, any more than you do?"
"Oh, no--no malice. It angered her cruel all the same, as it did me; and she won't be sorry to see you lose--though there's no malice--certainly not."
"You're in luck with such a sister and such a wife to be."
David changed the subject.
"Have they settled where 'tis to come off?"
"No--only the day."
"Monday week?"
"Yes."