"You miserable cur!" said Pendleton.
"Oh, you needn't think that you're the only one!" Porshinger laughed.
The next instant, Pendleton had him by the throat—then he released him and flung him in the chair.
"You're too contemptible for a man to touch, even in fight," said he.
It was no use for Porshinger to struggle physically against Pendleton, and he was well aware of it, one experience had already proved it beyond the possibility of doubt. So he sat back and carefully straightened his tie.
"The Board of Governors shall have a report of this affair," said he. "I overlooked your previous assault; but you'll have to pardon me if I decline to overlook this one."
"Report and be damned!" Pendleton exclaimed. "I'll be delighted if you do."
"And meanwhile, there are other ways of reaching you, my friend," Porshinger added. "I've already reached you through the lady we both admire, so you may have my leavings if you wish them. They're not so bad—as you doubtless can vouch for."
Again Pendleton sprang forward; Porshinger instantly cringed deeper into his chair.
With his cane raised to strike, Pendleton recovered himself.