Her Forbidden Knight

Начало книги

“Young man,” said Tom Dougherty, “that’ll do. Remove yourself.”

“What do you mean?” said the person addressed, pugnaciously.

Dougherty regarded him with stern disfavor.

“You know what I mean. Go over and talk to Venus at the cigar stand. But as for that” — he nodded toward the telegraph desk, where sat Lila Williams, the operator, her face reddened by the impertinent gaze of the young man — “nothing doing. Stay away, and far away.”

“Private, eh?” the young man grinned.

Dougherty’s face became sterner still.

“You say one more word,” he said calmly, “and I’ll punch your face. Now clear out.”

At this threat the young man raised his brows in a sort of pained surprise.

“I say,” he protested, “that isn’t necessary. When you talk about punching my face you offend my sensibilities. I regard it as impolite. Nevertheless, I’m a good fellow, and I’ll be glad to seek fresh pastures on your assurance that the little brunette yonder, who is somewhat of a peach, belongs to you. If she does, I wish to congratulate you on having—”

Читать дальше →