"Something fairly unpleasant, I should say, by the tone of your voice--and, by the way, you are pointing your potato knife at me--"

Mrs. Corbett with an effort controlled her temper.

"I believe, Mrs. Corbett, you would do me bodily injury. What ahorrible thought, and you a former officer in the Salvation Army!"Rance was smiling again and enjoying the situation. "What a thrillingheadline it would make for the Brandon _Sun_: 'The Black CreekStopping-House scene of a brutal murder. Innocent youthful man struck downin his youth and beauty.' You make me shudder, Mrs. Corbett, but youlook superb when you rage like that; really, you women interest me agreat deal. I am so fond of all of you!"

"You're a divil, Rance!" Mrs. Corbett repeated again. "But you ain'tgoin' to do that blessed girl any harm--she's goin' to be saved fromyou some way."

"Who'll do it, I wonder?" Rance seemed to triumph over her.