He saw the anger leap up in her eyes, he noted a sudden hard, tense curving of her lips. Then, lifting her white shoulders, she laughed softly as she leaned back in her chair, relaxing.
"Drink," she said lightly. "As you say, we shall talk of your new strike. As you say, that is why I am here with you. And then …"
He had tossed off his wine and now said sharply:
"Then you will allow me the pleasure of escorting you to the door of Père Marquette's … or you will get one of your hangdogs or Joe here to see you home. Which?"
"Do you think I am a coward?" she said quickly.
"All women are, I think," was his blunt answer.
"Then try to kiss me when you please! Since I am your guest to-night I shall expect you to see me to my room."
"I have told you what will happen."
She smiled at him. He saw the fleeting dimples at the corners of the red lipped mouth. And he saw too, in her eyes, the glint as of steel.
"Speaking of your discovery, Mr. Drennen…"