“Well, well, let it go, and I’ll see about it by-and-by,” said Hallam. “Have patience.”
“A man at my time of life can’t have patience, Rob. Now come, you know I want the girl, and it will be like tying us more tightly together.”
“And put a stop to the risk of your telling tales,” said Hallam, bitterly.
“I’m not the man to tell tales,” said Crellock, sturdily, “neither am I the man for you to make an enemy.”
“Threatening?”
“No, but I’m sure you wouldn’t care to go back to the gang and on the road, Robert Hallam. Such a good man as your wife and child think you are!”
“Hold your tongue, will you?” cried Hallam savagely.
“When I please,” replied Crellock. “Oh! come, you needn’t look so fierce, old chap. I used to think what a wonder you were, and wish I could be as cool and clever, and—”
“Well?” for the other stopped.
“Oh! nothing; only I don’t think so now.”