“I did not know you could be so fierce, Mr. Paine. I had not expected it. You almost frightened me. You were so very—well, mild and long-suffering on the other occasions when we met.”
“I am not always so mild, Miss Colton. However, if I had known you were within hearing I might not have been quite so emphatic.”
“Then I am glad you didn't know. I think those ruffians were treated as they deserved.”
“Not half as they deserved. I shall watch from now on and if there are any more attempts at annoying you or your people I shall do more than talk.”
“Thank you. They have been troublesome—of late. I am sure we are very much obliged to you, all of us.”
“Not at all.”
“Oh yes, we are. Not only for this, but for—all the rest. For your help the other night especially; I want to thank you for that.”
“It was nothing,” I answered, awkwardly.
“Nothing! You are not very complimentary, Mr. Paine.”
“I mean—that is, I—”