“I’m not gambling!” cried Sid, and he shrank back, as though Tom had struck him.
“Dare you deny that you’re going from here to the gambling den in Dartwell?” asked Tom, with flashing eyes.
Sid was silent.
“You don’t dare deny it,” went on the captain. “Now, Sid, I’ve made my last appeal. From now on I’m going to act. I’m captain of the nine, and what I say goes. I say you sha’n’t go out to that gambling hall to-night!” and, before either of his chums were aware of his action, Tom had sprung forward, locked the door, and taken out the key. “There! Let’s see you go out now!” cried Tom, as he planted himself in front of the portal and folded his arms, a picture of defiance.
Sid acted as if stunned for a moment. Then, fairly springing forward, he cried:
“Stand aside, Tom! I’ve got to go out now! You don’t understand. Stand aside and let me pass!”
“I’ll not! You sha’n’t make a beast of yourself any longer!”
“Stand aside or I’ll tear you away from that door and burst it open!” and Sid fairly hissed out the words.
Tom never moved. Calmly he faced his chum. Though his face was stern, there was a look of deep sorrow on it. As for Phil he knew not what to do or say.
“Once more,” asked Sid, and his voice was calmer, “will you stand aside, or have I got to force you?”