He was almost at the landing before Keith recognized him or the other glanced up.
"Ah--seen her, I suppose ?" "Yes," returned Keith, not thinking it worth while to mention the lady's denial of having sent for him, "I have just come from there." "Hum--thought you'd be through by this time--fine looking girl, ain't she ?--believe I'll run in and chat with her myself." "I would advise you to select some other time, Doctor," said the younger, drily, "as the lady has a visitor at present." "A visitor ?" his face rosy, his shrewd eyes darkening.

"Ah, indeed! Of the male sex ?" "I judge so--'Black Bart' Hawley." "Good Lord!" so startled his voice broke.

"Did he see you ?" "Rather; I backed him up against the wall with a gun while I made my adieu." "But what brought him there?
Are they acquainted ?" "Don't ask conundrums, Doctor.

He may be your rival with the fair lady for all I know.

If he is, my sympathies are all with you.