Page:The traitor; a story of the fall of the invisible empire (IA traitorstoryoffa00dixo).pdf/111

 you want to test it! A dozen of my friends are out there, yours all around you, a hundred to one, but knock it off! knock it off!"

John Graham had reached the platform by this time, seized Billy and led him back through the crowd to Mrs. Wilson who was in hysterics, the boys vainly trying to quiet her.

"What the devil's the matter with you—have you gone crazy?" John whispered, shaking Billy fiercely. "Go home and behave yourself!"

"Attend to your own business, John Graham; I'm attending to mine!" was Billy's sullen answer. And without another word he led Mrs. Wilson away followed by his companions, while John gazed after him with increasing astonishment.

In the confusion which followed Billy's sudden challenge the Judge saw his chance. He sprang to his feet and moved to adjourn for dinner. Before Larkin could recover himself the motion was carried and the Convention adjourned.

Butler turned to the Carpetbagger and said:

"I wish to see you in my hotel immediately on a matter of the gravest importance."

"I haven't time, Judge," Larkin carelessly answered.

"I'm in no mood to be trifled with," answered the Judge.

"It's a waste of time, your Honour—you're