"Well, young man, I size up a fellow in pretty short order, and all things being equal, I think you'll do."
Laura, radiant at this totally unexpected result of the encounter, looked from one man to the other in delighted amazement. She was afraid they would fly at each other's throats, and here they were, apparently, the best of friends. Making a move towards the house she said:
"Shall I get the tea?"
"Tea?" exclaimed Madison in mock dismay.
The girl shook her finger in his face.
"Yes, tea. You know it must be tea—nothing stronger."
Madison looked comically at the broker:
"How strong are you for that tea, Mr. Brockton?"
"I'll pass," rejoined the broker, entering into the spirit of the fun, "it's your deal, Mr. Madison."
"Mine?" echoed the Westerner, laughing. "No, deal me out this hand."