“And you would have told her this? You’ve already talked against me to her?”
Panther Pete’s voice was cool, and even sounded kindly. Whatever his feelings, he had marvelous control of them.
“Not yet.”
“And why not?”
“Because, you see——” He stopped, hesitating.
“Make it as black against me as you please, but I’d like to hear it.”
“Well, I’ve delayed, because I was afraid if I said to her what I think and have heard about you she might think my words were due to jealousy.”
“Kind of you, I’m sure!”
“Oh, don’t thank me for it; I’d like to tell her, and I came here to tell her to-night, and take the chances.”
“Denton, you’re simply crazy jealous. If I take a notion to a girl, I’ve just as much right to do so as you have; and to marry her, if I can. You’re in love with the lady; and so you want to say to me, ‘Hands off!’ But I don’t have to do what you ask. I’ve come here to-night to see the young lady, and I know she’ll be glad to see me. So, if you’ll kindly tell me where she is, I’ll——”