"I'm not ashamed! You bet, I'm not," defiantly returned Bud. "She's the best 'un in this mean old scrap-heap, where a feller can't lose a button 'thout every one a' knowing it!"
"Damn it, you're right. Bud!" exclaimed Boss Holden, bringing his fist down suddenly upon the counter. "Mrs. Hadly's one fine little woman. She shan't be talked over in my store!"
Mr. All worth gasped.
Miss Harriet paled.
The on-lookers smiled.
This was the limit of endurance.
"My dear man," said Allworth on recovering, "if you can't join a church, at least be respectful."
"And keep your swearing for other company, please!" added Miss Harriet sharply. "Come, Mr. Allworth, let us leave this place and talk the matter over like Christians!"
Exeunt the leaders of the flock.
Boss Holden drew a deep breath and laughed.