To this Clarke made answer: "That is precisely what we do believe. They have predicted our future, they have laid out all our plans. Their advice has brought us to our present high place, and we shall continue in our course, despite you or any other doubter."
"They have brought you to a very dubious sort of success," Serviss cuttingly replied, "But what about your victim? I know this city and its ways. I realize, as none of you seem to do, the wasting injustice you are about to inflict. Let me intercede—let me arrange some other plan—"
On Clarke's face a sneering, one-sided smile crept as he answered: "You are too late. Our plans are made, our programme published."
"What do you mean?"
"The reporters have just been here. The notice of my speech and a broad hint of the nature of my challenge will appear in four of the leading papers to-morrow morning—"
"But Viola's—Miss Lambert's name! You surely haven't used that?"
"Oh no. That is to follow. The challenge, with her name and defiance, form the climax to my oration." He swelled with pride as he spoke, as if visualizing himself on the platform, the centre of thousands of eyes, the champion of reviving faith.
"Thank God for your vanity! There is still time for some one to intervene," responded Serviss, minded to thrust him through.
Pratt shouldered in again. "What have you got to do with it, anyway? Who asked you to interfere?"
"The chief person concerned—Miss Lambert herself."