I saw the whole affair and heard the insult, and it was wholly unprovoked.

Harry did just what was right, and if he hadn't I'd either have made Willits apologize or I would have shot him myself the moment the affair could have been arranged, no matter where we were.

I know perfectly well"-- here he swept his eyes around--"that there is not a man in this room who does not feel as I do about Rutter's treatment of this boy, and so I shall not comment further upon it." He dropped his clenched hand and turned to Harry, his voice still clear and distinct but with a note of tenderness through it.

"And now, that pronunciamentos are in order, my boy, here is one which has less of the Bombastes Furioso in it than the one you have just listened to--but it's a damned sight more humane and a damned sight more fatherly, and it is this:--hereafter you belong to me--you are my son, my comrade, and, if I ever have a dollar to give to any one, my heir.
And now one thing more, and I don't want any one of you gentlemen within sound of my voice ever to forget it: When hereafter any one of you reckon with Harry you will please remember that you reckon with me." He turned suddenly.

"Excuse me one moment, gentlemen, and I will then see that you get your several carriages.