“Jokes reflecting upon one’s honor are in bad taste,” gravely retorted the melancholy actor.
“Indeed, I thought it no jest at the time!” replied the other.
“Mistress Susan, your tongue is dangerous!”
“Mr. Hawkes, your courage will never lead you into danger!”
“Nay,” he began, angrily, “this is a serious offense––”
“On the contrary,” she said, laughing, “it is a question of defense.”
“There is no arguing with a woman,” he grumbled. “She always takes refuge in her tongue.”
“While you, Mr. Hawkes, take refuge––”
But the other arose indignantly and strode into the gloom. Meanwhile Barnes, while dressing the injury, discovered near the cut an old scar thoroughly healed, but so large and jagged it attracted his attention.