The sudden movement awoke her, and her dark eyes looked up in startled confusion.

By this time I had taken a quick step forward, and faced De Croix.
"This lady is under my protection," I said, a bit hotly, not relishing the manner of his approach, "and any disrespect from either of you will be unwarranted." He paused, evidently surprised at my bold front, and his lip curled contemptuously.
"Ah, my young game-cock!" he ejaculated, surveying me curiously.

"So you have spurs, and think you can use them?
Well, I have no quarrel with you, but perchance I may have more reason to be the protector of this young lady than you suppose.

Stand aside, Monsieur." She had risen from the sand, and now stood erect beside me.

I saw Jordan grinning in great enjoyment of the scene, and that De Croix's eyes were full of anger; but I would not stir.