Now
you've heard my statement, sir. I am willing to listen for a few
minutes to your side of the question. Don't all speak at once,--and
please be careful, there are ladies present."
While Percival did not take his eyes from Landover's face during
this speech, he was aware that Miss Clinton and her aunt had turned
abruptly away and were leaning against the rail a few yards distant,
their backs to him. Olga Obosky and Careni-Amori were regarding
him with shining, approving eyes, while Mrs. Block,--gulping
furiously,--clasped her husband's arm and kept up a constant
muttering. Something told him that Ruth Clinton and Mrs. Spofford
had turned against him.
"I have nothing to say to you," said Landover, curtly. Turning
on his heel, he joined the two ladies at the rail. He spoke a few
words to them in a lowered tone, and then the three of them strode
off without so much as a glance at the young man.
Percival flushed a dull red under his tan. His eyes followed them
until they disappeared around a corner. Down in his heart he hoped
that Ruth would not deny him a fleeting look of encouragement and
approval.
Landover carried himself like a soldier. He was tall, well set-up,
and almost offensively erect.
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