"And should we make a little wager about it--I ask your consent, Mrs.Stevenson ?" "America forever!" said Kitty.
What could I do after that?
But all at once I thought of my scanty purse and of the many troubles that beset me, and the strange unfitness in one of my present situation engaging in any such talk.

In spite of that, my stubborn blood had its way as usual.
"My war chest is light," I answered, "as I am farther away from home than I had planned.

But you know my black horse, Mr.Orme, that you fancied ?" "Oh, by Jove! I'll stake you anything you like against him--a thousand pounds, if you like." "The odds must be even," I said, "and the only question is as to the worth of the horse.

That you may not think I overvalue him, however, make it half that sum, or less, if these gentlemen think the horse has not that value." "A son of old Klingwalla is worth three times that," insisted Orme.

"If you don't mind, and care to close it, we'll shoot to-morrow, if Major Williams will arrange it." "Certainly," said that gentleman.
"Very well," I said.
"And we will be so discourteous to the stranger within our gates," said the vivacious Kitty, "as to give you a jolly good beating, Captain Orme.
We'll turn out the Post to see the match.