"In that case, I shall be glad to know why you greet me in this way?" said Jerce, in icy tones. "Is it that Captain Ackworth is angry with me because I dared to love you?"
"No," said Anthony, in his turn, "and to save you further surmises as to what is the matter, allow me to inform you, Dr. Jerce--"
"Sir Daniel, if you please," interrupted the other, his large face becoming watchful and cunning; "give me my proper title."
"I can do that," said Clarice, who was restraining her wrath with great difficulty, "you are a scoundrel."
"Indeed," said Jerce, blanching and wincing, but maintaining his composure in a most wonderful manner, considering the provocation. "I regret that you should call an old friend by so harsh a name."
"An old friend who plotted the death of--"
"It's a lie," broke in Jerce, with a sudden flash of rage. "I never intended Horran any harm."
"By your own mouth you are condemned," said Anthony, quickly. "Miss Baird never mentioned names. Why should you think that she meant Mr. Horran, I ask you?"
"Because Horran is dead, and death was mentioned," said Jerce, striving to extricate himself from the difficulty. "Perhaps you will explain why I have been asked here to be insulted?"
"Would you rather that the police insulted you?" asked Anthony, coldly.