There was no mistaking the challenge in his look. Nick saw it. His impetuous temper rose in response. The bear was forgotten. Neither alluded to it. The two men faced each other with the concentrated jealous hatred of weeks’ growth uppermost in their hearts.
“Wal, I guess y’ve found me. What then?”
Nick squared himself, and his expression was as relentless as that of the older man.
Ralph paid no heed to the taunting inquiry. He looked over at Aim-sa, who had shrunk away. Now she answered his look with one that was half-pleading, half-amused. She realized the feud which was between the men, but she did not understand the rugged, forceful natures which she had so stirred.
“Say, gal,” Ralph said abruptly. “Ther’s jest us two. Ye gave yourself to me that night, maybe you’ve give yourself to him since. Which is it, him or me? Ye’ll choose right here. Choose!”
Nick turned and looked at her with strained, anxious eyes. Ralph’s face belied his outward calm.
“An’ what if Aim-sa loves neither?” the woman asked, with a laugh in which there was no mirth, and some fear.
“Then she’s lied.”
Ralph’s teeth shut with a snap.
Aim-sa looked from one to the other. She was beginning to understand, and with understanding came a great dread. She longed to flee, but knew that to do so would be impossible.