"Don't let him come into the car," begged the girl.
"Out of my way, young fellow," ordered the dark man, gaining the second step up.
"Is this man annoying you?" asked Tom, in a friendly tone of the girl, though he turned a cool, hostile stare upon the young man.
"Yes, he is," the young woman answered.
"Get out of the way, boy," commanded the man, reaching out a hand.
Tom Halstead's right hand closed instantly. His fist shot out, landing on the fellow's neck. That persecutor fell back, missed his footing, and went sprawling to the station platform. The girl had started to dart into the car, but now she turned, watching with fearful eyes.
"Oh, don't let him hurt you!" she cried to Tom.
"Thank you," responded the young captain, dryly; "I don't believe he will."
The train was beginning to move as the man fell sprawling on the platform. Joe, who had seen the blow struck, darted in, dragging the fellow swiftly to his feet.