"I am at home here, that is all.

If you have lawful business here, do it.

I am no hindrance to you.
If you have no lawful business--and as to that," he continued, recalling with indignation the tricks which had been employed to remove him, "I have my opinion--I have as much right to be here as you! The more, as it is not very long," he went on, with a glance of defiance, directed at Basterga, "since you gave the man who now accompanies you the foulest of characters! Since you would have me rob him! Since you called him reprobate of the reprobate! Is he reprobate now ?" "Silence!" "A corrupter of women, as you called him ?" "Liar!" the Syndic cried, trembling with passion.

"Be silent!" The blow found him unprepared.

"He lies!" he stammered, turning to his ally.
Basterga laughed softly.