Lamar was not quick to quarrel, though when aroused a man of devilish temper and courage.

The subject had become distasteful to him.

He was growing obviously restive under Toombs' banter.

The ladies of the household apprehending what was coming left the table.
Then Lamar broke forth.

He put Toombs' visit to Grant, "crawling at the seat of power," against his eulogy of a dead enemy.