“You’re just a liar to say that! And you can’t say such things in my room. This is my room; I pay for it. And you can be respectful to me here, or you can go.”

Kirby did not betray his anger. He concentrated it and went on: “I beg your pardon.

In a voice as soft as oil he asked:

“Did you see Delaher?”

“Yes, I did, and he’s a rough-neck.”

“Well?”

“None of your business!”

“None of my business, eh?” Kirby said, with a bitter intonation.

“Leave my room,” Becky said.

“No, I’ll not leave your room.”