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Rh Bronson Marlow, of the University of London? He wanted to see Carlyle's house. Perhaps you would show it to him. I don't know where it is myself."

The girl laughed a little.

"Oh, I don't mind, but I'm sure you intend to fight, and I'd rather you wouldn't."

"My dear girl," said Stranleigh, earnestly, "that fellow looks like an elephant, but he hasn't the slightest chance with me—not the remotest. The thing will be all over in about three seconds. I'll escort you up the steps if I may." And he did so.

"Professor, I have just told this young lady that my name is the unromantic one of Tom Pitts, but you, Professor, possess a name worth acknowledging. Miss Alice Drummond—Professor Marlow. Painter and man of science, I make you acquainted."

"If you wish to see Carlyle's house, come this way," said the girl; and they departed together.

"Now, my bulky friend, if you will come down-stairs, we'll settle this little matter. No, I don't want anyone else to descend. You all stop up there, where you'll see better, and keep an eye out in both directions for the police, will you? Five minutes' bout, this round. Anybody got a watch?"

"If we had," said one, "we wouldn't show it with you about."

"That's right. Nothing like being cautious.