"Arresting you, and taking you before the captain charged with being a spy."
"You wouldn't try that, Wellington?"
"Oh! I wouldn't—perhaps you doubt my ability?"
"I simply warn you against it. I should hate to offer violence in the presence of a lady—"
"Don't mind me, Senor Roderic—you have my permission to defend yourself even if by so doing you are compelled to spoil the gentleman beau's classic features!" cried the little senorita, ready to display her colors.
"That settles it—will you come with me peaceably or forcibly?" demanded the enraged Jerome, stretching out a powerful arm.
"Neither, thanks," replied Roderic, stepping back.
"Then here's at you for keeps," and Wellington plunged forward with impetuous zeal.
Senorita Georgia had great faith in the individual prowess of her betrothed, whom she had seen come out victor in other affairs, yet Jerome was no stripling, and besides, assistance for him might arrive at any moment—so she stood behind the barricade of steamer chairs and fervently besought the Virgin to favor the cause of the brave man she loved.