"I mean that you want money, and that you risked reputation, liberty and life to, get it." Craver looked significantly at his proposed father-in-law.
Lemby recognised his own speech to Claudia. "You have been listening to the conversation between me and my daughter," he said, fiercely.
"No, I have not. But after you left the flat I saw Claudia, and she sought my counsel."
"It's none of your business, Craver, and Claudia is a minx for talking to you about my affairs."
"It is my business," insisted the young man, firmly. "I hear that you want Claudia to go with you to Australia, and I don't intend her to go."
"Oh! don't you," sneered the other, "And how do you intend to stop her going?"
"Ah! that remains to be seen."
"You're a confounded scoundrel!"
"Gently, Mr. Lemby," said Edwin, resolutely, keeping his temper. "If I were what you call me, I could easily stop your projected journey to Australia by informing Sergeant Purse what you said to Claudia. But I don't intend to do that. I followed you here as your friend to offer my services."
"I don't want them," vociferated the pirate, looking uneasy.