The alacrity with which the villain chose the former alternative proved his appreciation of life. The weapon fell upon the piazza, and then came the words:
“Drop down on your face, sir, and lie there!”
Never in his life before had the villain lain down in such haste.
“Put your hands behind you, sir.”
The order was obeyed.
“Who in thunder are yer?” he growled.
“A girl.”
“Blarst yer petticoats, what in thunder is yer playin’ this on me for?”
“Mr. Cody is my friend, and you sought to kill him.”
“Waal, this do beat all!”