"I reckon you know that if I'd wanted trouble, it would o' been all over before this." The weapons were not drawn, and the big man continued, "Dad Howitt says a feller always whips himself every time he fights when there ain't no--no principle evolved.

I don't guess Dad would see ary principle in this, 'cause there might be some truth in what you boys said.

I reckon I am somethin' at playin' a fool, but it would o' been a heap safer for you to let folks find it out for themselves." "We all were jest a foolin', Matt," muttered one.
"That's alright," returned the big fellow; "But you'd better tie up again and go back into the house and dance a while longer.
Folks might think you was scared if you was to leave so soon.".