“No,” said Bright. “Such speeches as that are not spiteful. They’re foolish. Besides, Slayback’s a friend of mine.”
Miner looked up again, but in surprise. Ralston turned sharply on Bright.
“I say, Ham—” he began.
“All right, Jack,” Bright interrupted, striding steadily along. “We’re not going to quarrel. Stand up for your friends, and I’ll stand up for mine. That’s all.”
“I haven’t any,” answered Ralston, growing suddenly gloomy again.
“Oh! Well—so much the better for you, then.”
For a few moments no one spoke again. Miner broke the silence. He was a cheerful little soul, and hated anything like an unpleasant situation.
“Heard about the cow and the collar-stud, Jack?” he enquired, by way of coming to the rescue.
“Chestnut!” growled Ralston.
“Of course,” answered Miner, who was nevertheless convinced that Ralston had not heard the joke. “I wasn’t going to tell it. It only struck me just then.”