"You are pleased to be facetious."
"You will find that that view will not be taken by a judge and jury."
It was with a distinct effort that the fellow returned to an attitude of defiance--squaring his shoulders and tugging at his moustache.
"I have no wish, and no intention, to chop phrases with a lady. I imagined, madam, that you desired to say something pertinent to your husband's terrible position--with the gallows already shadowing him. Since it appears to be otherwise I can but proceed to do my duty."
"By all means do your duty. But you understand that when my husband is arrested you will be arrested too."
"Pooh, madam--you cannot frighten me!"
"But I can, and will, get you penal servitude for life."
"Can you, indeed, madam? May I ask how you propose to do it?"
"By telling the plain and simple story of your connection with my husband. That will be sufficient, as you know."
"I know nothing of the sort; tell your story, and be hanged!"