"Not much, sir," replied Mr. Woodward, vehemently. "You've made some remarkable statements, young man, and I demand a clear explanation before you leave."
"Well, you demand too much, Aaron Woodward," I replied firmly. "Unlock that door."
"Not just yet. I want to know what you know of Holtzmann of Chicago?"
"You won't learn by treating me in this manner," was my determined reply. "Unlock that door, or, take my word for it, I'll arouse the whole neighborhood."
"You'll do nothing of the kind, young man," he rejoined.
"I will."
"Make the least disturbance and you shall pay dearly for it. Understand, sir, I'm not to be trifled with."
"And I'm not to be frightened into submission," I returned with spirit. "I have a right to leave when I please and I shall do so."
"Not till I am ready," said he, coolly.
I was nonplussed and alarmed—nonplussed over the question of how to get away, and alarmed at the thought of what might happen if I was compelled to remain.