"Just what I do mean!" interrupted the doctor. "How blind you fathers and mothers, cousins and brothers are! Why, if I had not dragged you down here, as you put it, the explosion would have taken place while we were there, but our presence would have made it premature; and like most premature explosions, would have resulted only in hurting all present—more especially the two up-stairs."
At this moment a messenger entered with two telegrams—one for Carden, the other for Martin.
Carden's telegram read:
"Have Hall here under arrest for duelling. Get me official information of fight—see O'Brien.
"Blount."
With the telegram as an excuse Carden was about to return to Martin's rooms, when the doctor stopped him, saying very earnestly:
"Hold on, Mr. Carden! You appeared anxious only a short time ago to stop Martin from leaving here. He has now, I firmly believe, abandoned that idea. Do you want to start him again with that?" indicating the telegram. As Carden stopped hesitatingly he continued with a humorous look: "And, besides, you should have some regard for their feelings. Just put yourself in his or her place and imagine anyone intruding so quickly!"
"Bosh!" was the irritable response of Carden, but he sat down with the doctor and joined that gentleman in disposing of some bitter beer—"just to pass away the time."
This is what happened up-stairs.
Doctor Fox had scarcely dragged Carden out of the room before Kate burst into tears. Martin was startled by this sudden outburst of emotion and was very much troubled. It was no slight cause that forced such an exhibition of emotion from so reserved and proud a girl as Kate. As the crying increased Martin become more troubled, and after a momentary struggle surrendered.