The blood mounted to his face, and he felt a rising and choking sensation in his throat.

Wisely he forbore any answer until he had regained his self-possession.

Then, with a coolness that surprised even himself, he said-- "That's a broad accusation, Mr.Jasper.Will you go with me to your authority ?" Jasper was not just prepared for a response like this; and he cooled down, instantly, several degrees.
"My authority is quite satisfactory," he returned, still manifesting angry feeling.

"That you have been slandering me is plain; and, also, betraying the confidential transactions of the house.

It is full time we parted--full time.