ting a look in our direction. That rather
puzzled me."

"It needn't. After what you gave him, I should think he'll feel shy of
another encounter."

"No; that's not it. Blackleg though the fellow be, he's got game in
him. He gave proof of it in the `El Dorado,' defying, and backing
everybody out. It was an exhibition of real courage, Will; and, to tell
the truth, I couldn't help admiring it--can't now. When I saw him
presiding over the gambling table, and dealing out the cards, I at once
made up my mind that it would never do to meet him--even if he
challenged me. Now, I've decided differently; and if he call me out,
I'll give him a chance to recover a little of his lost reputation. I
will, upon my honour."

"But why should you? A `sport,' a professional gambler! The thing
would be simply ridiculous."

"Nothing of the kind--not here in California. On the contrary, I should
cut a more ridiculous figure by refusing him satisfaction. It remains
to be seen whether he'll seek it according to the correct code."

"That he won't; at least, I don't think he will. From the way that lot
have got their heads together, it looks as if they meant mischief,
_now_. They may have been watching their opportunity--to get us two
alone. What a pity we didn't see them before our friends went off!
They're good fellows, those Yankee officers, and would have stood by
us."

"No doubt they would. But it's too late now. They're beyond hailing
distance, and we must take care of ourselves. Get your dirk ready,
Will, and have your hand close to the butt of that shooting-iron, you
took from Mr De Lara."

"I have it that way. Never fear. Wouldn't it be a good joke if I have
to give the fellow a pill out of his own pistol?"

"No joking matter to us, if they're meditating an attack. Though we
disarmed him in the morning, he'll be freshly provided, and with weapons
in plenty. I'll warrant each of the four has a battery concealed under
his cloak. They appear as if concocting some scheme--which we'll soon
know all about--likely before leaving the house. Certainly, they're up
to something."

"Four hundred and ninety dollars, gentlemen!"

The financial statement is made by the office clerk presenting the bill.

"There!" cries Crozier, flinging down a five hundred dollar bill. "Let
that settle it. You can keep the change for yourself."

"Thank ye," dryly responds the Californian dispenser of drinks, taking
the ten dollar