In fact, I didn't really laugh at your name
at all. It was at something quite different which came into my
mind at that moment."
"Your apology is accepted so far," returned the other stiffly.
"But that doesn't settle the other account between us, when we
meet again. Or do you choose to threaten me with jail for that,
also?"
"No. It's easier to keep out of your way."
"Good Lord!" cried the Southerner in disgust. "Are you afraid of
everything?"
"Why, no!" Perkins rose, smiling at him with perfect equanimity.
"As a matter of fact, if you're interested to know, I wasn't
particularly afraid of Von Plaanden, and, if I may say so without
offense, I'm not particularly afraid of you."
Carroll studied him intently.
"By Jove, I believe you aren't! I give it up!" he cried
desperately. "You're crazy, I reckon--or else I am." And he took
himself off without the formality of a farewell to the others.
Raimonda, with a courteous bow to his companions, followed him.
Wearily the goggled one sank back in his seat. Cluff moved across,
planting himself exactly where Carroll had stood.
"Perkins!"
"Eh?" responded the sitter absently.
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