For you said 'twas he attacked you." "And so he did." Lionel countered instantly.

"He never gave me time to speak, but flung down from his horse and came at me snarling like a cross-grained mongrel.

Oh, he was as ready for the fight as I--as eager." "But the woman at Malpas knows," said Sir Oliver gloomily.

"And if she tells...." "She'll not," cried Lionel.

"She dare not for her reputation's sake." "Indeed, I think you are right," agreed his brother with relief.