Farquharson, startled by her gaze, turned also, and, seeing me, was quickly on his feet, his face aflame with passion.
"Sir," said he, advancing toward me, "do you not know the fate of eavesdroppers"—and then for the first time noticing my uniform, added, "and spies?"
"I know the fate of those who call a gentleman by such names," I retorted coolly.
"A gentleman?" and he laughed. "I will have you hanged for a dog of a spy before sunrise."
"Pardon me, sir, but you are my prisoner until it shall suit me to let you go free."
At this he laughed merrily.
"Well said, Sir Rebel," he cried; "but permit me to pass before I spit you on my sword." And he drew and advanced upon me.
"Permit me, sir, to use another argument;" and I drew my pistol and covered him. "Advance another step and I will blow your brains out."
He glanced at me for a moment, but did not advance. "And further, let me suggest that we are in the presence of a lady, and it is not seemly for her to see the flash of weapons."
At this he put up his sword.