Just to-day father was saying that you and I, teamed up--Why, what's the matter, Larry ?" "You and I--teamed up," he repeated slowly.
"Yes.

Don't you like the idea ?" His hands suddenly gripped her bare shoulders.
"There's nothing to it!" he exclaimed almost savagely.
"What's that ?" she cried, startled.
"I tell you there's nothing to it!" "You--you think I can't put it over ?" "You can't! And I'm not going to have it!" "Why--why--" Staring, she drew slowly away from him.

His face, which a few moments before had been smiling, was now harsh and dominant with decision.
She had heard him spoken of as "Laughing Larry"; and also as "Terrible Larry" whose aroused will none could brook.

He looked this latter person now, and she could not understand.
But though she could not understand, her own defiant spirit stormed up to fight this unexpected opposition.

He didn't believe in her--that was it! He didn't think she was equal to working with him! Her young figure stiffened in angered pride, and her mind was gathering hot phrases to fling at him when the door from the pawnshop began to creak open.
Instantly Larry turned toward it, relaxed and yet alert for anything.
Old Jimmie and Barney Palmer entered.
"Hello, Larry!" cried the old man, crossing.