“Why, you young whippersnapper!” he said, “I could handle half a dozen boys like you.”
“I don't like to leave you in the power of this man,” said Mrs. Gregory. “He will kill you.”
“Right you are, ma'am!”' growled the giant. “That's just what I am going to do.”
The lady turned pale. She was frightened, but her concern for Walter's safety overcame her fear for herself.
“I shall stay here,” she said, “It would be cowardly to leave you.”
“Take my advice, boy,” growled the tramp, “and clear out of here. It is no concern of yours.”
Walter did not answer, but, keen, alert, vigilant, he fixed his eye warily on his formidable opponent.
“Well, youngster,” said the tramp impatiently, “did you hear me?”
“Yes, I heard you.”
“Leave this room, or I'll smash you!”