"I thought you had," was Ralph's mild sarcasm.
That did not even cause Conway Degger to blush. He still spoke heatedly. "I presume you expect me to fall down and worship you for saving my life."
"Not you," sighed Ralph. "Gratitude I am sure is not your besetting sin."
"Oh, you're only jealous," sneered the other. "Anybody can see that. And you think you'll have a better time alone with Lorva aboard than you would if I went back to the light with you."
Ralph started for him. Then he halted, holding himself in. If there was a fight here on board the motor-boat Lorna must surely be aware of it. He bent on Conway Degger a look that warned him that he had gone far enough.
"I know just the sort of scamp you are, Degger," he said in a low voice. "I should not have let you hang around as you have. Your rep at college was enough."
"How about your own?" sneered Degger. "There was that Cora Devine—how about her?"
"Well, how about her?" rejoined Ralph, with unmoved countenance.
"You try to interfere in my affairs," Degger said furiously, "and somebody will hear all about that Devine girl—believe me!"
"I don't just get you, Degger," Ralph returned calmly. "But if for no other reason, that threat would make me promise to interfere—and to some purpose."