[Illustration: PAGE 374-- The priest interfered, and prevented a
conflict]

"What is this?" said the worthy man; "in God's name, what does this
scandalous conduct, in such a place, and on such an occasion, mean? Come
between these madmen," he proceeded, addressing the crowd, which had now
collected about them. "Keep them asunder!"

The two men were separated; but as each felt himself under the influence
of strong resentment, they glared at one another with looks of fiery
indignation.

"You had better keep out of my way, you impudent scoundrel," said
Purcel, shaking his whip at him; "and hark ye, make no more attempts to
pay attention to any of my sisters, or, by the heavens above me, I will
trace you through all your haunts, and flog you as I would a dog."

"I'll take care to give you the opportunity before long, Squire Purcel,
or rather Squireen Purcel," replied the Buck; "and what is more, I'll
see you and yours in my power yet."

"You're too ready wid your whip, Mr. Purcel," said several voices from
among the crowd; "and you do think it's dogs you have to dale wid, as
Mr. English says."

"No," said Purcel, with scom; "I deny it; my whip is never raised unless
to the shoulders of some slavish, lying, and dishonest scoundrel, whom I
prefer to punish rather than to prosecute."