Instantly Squire Paget flared up, and shook his fist in Ralph's face.
"If you dare to make trouble for my son I'll have you discharged as bridge tender," he fumed. "Understand that, Nelson! I am not going to have Percy's fair name ruined."
At that moment, before Ralph could reply, a key was heard to turn in the front door, and a second later the squire's son strode into the house.
CHAPTER VIII.
SQUIRE PAGET MAKES A MOVE.
Percy Paget had not expected to see Ralph, and he was very much disconcerted when brought thus unexpectedly face to face with the young bridge tender.
"Why—er—you here?" he stammered, as he flung aside his hat.
"He has been telling a fine string of falsehoods against you, my son!" put in the squire, ere Ralph could speak.