Zane, I am not a liar, and I hope I am not a coward," said Alfred coolly.

He took a long pull on his pipe and blew a puff of white smoke toward the ceiling.
"I believe you, but I must have an explanation.

There is something wrong somewhere.

I saw Betty pass you without speaking this morning.
I did not like it and I took her to task about it.

She then said you had insulted her.