“You'd better let her alone and get out o' here,” said Strong. His voice was like a firebrand to Douglas. He turned upon him, white with rage.
“You drove her to this.” His fists were clenched. He drew back to strike.
Jim came from behind the wagons just in time to catch the uplifted arm.
“Leave HIM to ME, this ain't no parson's job.” The pastor lowered his arm, but kept his threatening eyes on the deacon's face.
“Where's Poll?” asked Jim.
“In there! Douglas pointed toward the main tent without turning his head. He was still glaring at the deacon, and breathing hard.
“What?” cried Jim, in alarm. He faced about and saw Eloise. He guessed the truth. A few quick strides brought him to the entrance curtains. He threw them back and looked into the ring.
“My God! Why don't Barker stop her?”
“What is it?” called Douglas. He forgot the deacon in his terror at Jim's behaviour, and Strong was able to slip away, unnoticed.
“She's goin' ter ride! She's goin' ter ride Barbarian!”