Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/289

 "Tut, tut!" he cried. "Such an example of hatred, and such language before an innocent youth like myself, are not permissible. Sit down again, and if you don't behave yourself, I'll cause the stalwart Ponderby to tie you to your chair. You'd look rather ridiculous springing up in your disturbing fashion with a chair attached to you."

"I'll have nothing to do with that man Corbitt!" shouted Mackeller, his fists clenched.

"Yes; I gathered that from your previous profane remark, and we will take your determination as fixed. Therefore, sit down quietly, and enlighten me as to what you expect from your fellow-men. You make a quite unprovoked attack on Corbitt and his bank. You jeopardise his own position, because if he cannot successfully combat you, he must go under. Now, for the first time, Corbitt, with a club in his hands, is prepared to smash you. What else can you anticipate? You asked for a fight, and you've got it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall send for Corbitt, and should he be imbued with your uncompromising spirit, I shall then stand aside and let the best man win."

Stranleigh touched the bell, and when Ponderby appeared, asked—

"Is the motor-car at the door?"