"I don't care to play," said Portlaw shortly.
The eyes of the two men met.
"Are you, by any chance, afraid of our fox-faced guest?" asked Malcourt suavely.
"I don't care to give any reason, I tell you."
"That's serious; as there could be only one reason. Did you think you noticed—anything?"
"I don't know what I think.... I've half a mind to stop payment on that check—if that enlightens you any."
"There's an easier way," said Malcourt coolly. "You know how it is in sparring? You forecast what your opponent is going to do and you stop him before he does it."
"I'm not certain that he—did it," muttered Portlaw. "I can't afford to make a mistake by kicking out your brother-in-law."
"Oh, don't mind me—"
"I wouldn't if I were sure.... I wish I had that thousand back; it drives me crazy to think of losing it—in that way—"