carelessly back; a moment, and he was followed by the second
passenger, who seated himself on the opposite side of the
compartment. Once more they looked at each other, but without change
of countenance.

Tickets were collected, for there would be no stoppage before
Birmingham: then the door slammed, and the two men were alone
together.

Two or three minutes after the train had started, the elder man
leaned forward, moved slightly, and spoke.

"Excuse me, I think your name must be Hilliard."

"What then?" was the brusque reply.

"You don't remember me?"

"Scoundrels are common enough," returned the other, crossing his
legs, "but I remember you for all that."

The insult was thrown out with a peculiarly reckless air; it
astounded the hearer, who sat for an instant with staring eyes and
lips apart; then the blood rushed to his cheeks.

"If I hadn't just about twice your muscle, my lad," he answered
angrily, "I'd make you repent that, and be more careful with your
tongue in future. Now, mind what you say! We've a quiet quarter of
an hour before us, and I might alter my mind."