the meeting. Let it not be later than the following morning. He has,
of course, his choice of sword or pistol.'

'I doubt if the man will fight.'

'Then nothing will remain for me but the loathsome job of giving him
a horse-whipping. And I presume that you will not be silent as to his
cowardice.'

Early on the following morning Frank Harland, for such was the name
of Roland's friend, rode away towards Oatland's, the residence of the
coarse-haired Mr. Ham. He alighted at the gate, and throwing his
bridle rein over a post entered the grounds. Mr. Ham was at the
moment crossing the field towards his residence; but when he
perceived the early visitor he changed his course and proceeded to
meet the comer.

'Oh, how do you do, Mr. Harland? Did not know it was you. It is a
long time since we have seen each other. Was over looking at some of
my fellows who are clearing the bush of a piece of intervale. Rascals
will not work if one's eye is not constantly upon them.'

In a similar strain did he chatter on; but his ease of manner
Harland could see was only counterfeited. The early visit and the
grave face of the visitor had alarmed him; but he had not the courage
to put any of the questions that had turned his face into a note of
interrogation. At last they were at the door of the dwelling; and
Harland paused upon the steps.

'I come to you this morning, Mr. Ham, upon an important and delicate