I hope you fully understand me, sir, and will govern yourself accordingly." Smarting, or rather smothering, under the outrageous insult of these remarks, Farnsworth at first determined to fling his resignation at the Governor's feet and then do whatever desperate thing seemed most to his mood.

But a soldier's training is apt to call a halt before the worst befalls in such a case.

Moreover, in the present temptation, Farnsworth had a special check and hindrance.

He had had a conference with Father Beret, in which the good priest had played the part of wisdom in slippers, and of gentleness more dove-like than the dove's.

A very subtle impression, illuminated with the "hope that withers hope," had come of that interview; and now Farnsworth felt its restraint.