"I don't know, uncle. I was angry, and I just slapped his face. He deserved it."
"Very well, but never slap. I suppose that is the French schoolboy way of fighting. Hit hard—get in the first blow."
"Yes, sir. I hadn't a chance."
"You must take my old cadet boxing-gloves from under the sword. I have spoken to Sam, the groom. I saw him last year in a bout with the butcher's boy. After he has knocked you about for a month, you will be better able to take care of the Penhallow nose."
"I shall like that."
"You won't, but it will help to fill out your chest." Then he laughed,
"Did you ever get that cane?"
"No, sir. Billy found it. Leila gave him twenty-five cents for it, and now she won't give it to me."
"Well, well, is that so? The ways of women are strange."
"I don't see why she keeps it, uncle."
"Nor I. Now go to bed, it is late. She is a bit of a tease, John. Mark
Rivers says she is now just one half of the riddle called woman."