“But why?” asked Lottie. “We ought not to interfere when men are going to fight, and I think that’s what’s going to happen in there.”
“That is what’s going to happen,” said Cora, “but perhaps we can prevent it. For some unknown reason, though the boys promised to come here and defend Denny, they haven’t done so. Therefore, it’s our place to do it.”
“Yes, and I’m going with you!” announced Marita, determinedly.
All this talk had taken but a few seconds of time, and, as it had been in whispers, the men in the cabin had not heard it. The situation, however, was rapidly becoming acute.
With one accord, after Bruce had stepped toward old Denny, the others advanced. They were evidently going to lay violent hands on him. But the sturdy fisherman was not afraid.
“Stand back!” he cried. “Stand back or I’ll do you harm—you cowards!”
“No use calling names!” sneered Kelly. “We’re here to do you. We made you a fair offer, and you wouldn’t take it. Now you’ll have to abide by the consequences.”
“Get behind him,” said Bruce. “I can take him from where I stand.”
“Get back! Get out of here!” ordered the old man.
He raised the red oar over his head, threateningly.