When he had finished the letter he leaped at Gill with a shriek of rage, and thrust it into his face. Gill did not attempt to run or show fight, as Levi's hand closed on his throat in a grip that meant sure and speedy death.
"No, Levi, no; you must not punish him: leave that to me. And, Hunch Blair, how dare you?"
She stamped her foot at Hunch, and entwined her fingers around Levi's, her touch thrilling Gill as always it had done when she caressed him.
Hunch had darted forward with the knife uplifted, but Cassi had restrained him.
Matthi had turned to Parson Lawrence, who had begun to remonstrate, but ceased when Lizzī went to Gill's rescue.
Peter McAnay rose and looked approvingly on his son wreaking vengeance on the betrayer of his daughter, and frowned when she interfered to prevent a murder.
Levi obeyed her with savage reluctance, and Gill stood free, gasping for breath.
All the while Lizzī had held the baby to her heart, which she thought would not thump so hard if the child were pressed against it.
Hunch blurted, as he gave up the knife:
"He drawed it on Levi, an' I wanted ter stick it inter him."