He laughed a fierce, scornful laugh.
'I cannot say—you Cheap Jack Zita. They report that you have money and goods. Have you told him how much? If it be worth his while, he will be honourable towards you. It is all a matter of calculation. If you ain't worth much, he'll throw you over, as he would throw over Kainie when tired of her. Best take care! If you dare!'
The man's eyes glared with white heat, and he thrust his long arm towards Mark with clenched fist.
'Pip,' exclaimed Mark, 'you are the man I have been wanting to see. I will come out to you.'
He jumped out of the van. 'Your words are folly.' Then, 'You drive home without me, Zita. I told you I had business with all sorts of persons; now I have business with Ephraim—business of much consequence. May you get safe back in that rattletrap, and not be shaken to bits!'
'Rattletrap? Oh, if Jewel heard you!' She spoke as laughing, to disguise her inward trouble.
No sooner, however, was Mark gone than she broke down and cried.
But her tears did not last long.
'He's venomous. He don't know all. I do trust Mark. Besides—I've the van and money.'