himself, who found that nothing save some open and decided offense
could bring matters to an issue.

"You don't seem to get along very fast in this little matter," said
one of his friends rather tauntingly to him.

"No, it doesn't look much like a draw-game between them, either,"
said another friend, venturing a pun.

"Curse him," growled Petro, "he's a coward, and wont take offence.
What can a man do in such a case as that?"

"Carlton doesn't look to me just like a coward," said one of the
speakers; "but he doesn't want to fight you, Petro."

"Can't help it," said Petro, "he must do it."

"Well, then, give him a chance, and have it over."

"I'll improve the first opportunity, believe me."

But Petro did not further annoy Carlton that evening; the coolness
and self-possession he evinced quite nonplussed the angry Italian.






CHAPTER IX.