Step wriggled, but the grip on his collar did not yield.

“Oh, let me at him!” he begged. “We might as well have it out—he’s been pestering me for a week.”

“Never mind! He’ll stop it now.”

“Oh, I will, will I?” snarled Orkney. “I’d like to know who’s going to make me!”

“I might,” said Sam simply.

“Bah! Dare you to try—alone!”

“That’s the way I will try it—some day,” Sam told him. “But not now; no, not now.”

“That’s right—safety first!” sneered the other.

Sam grinned; and it was an odd grin. “Certainly; safety first!” said he.

Step ceased to struggle; but, twisting his neck, stared at his friend. And then the Shark chose to advance.