Page:Biggers and Ritchie - Inside the Lines.djvu/317

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THE PENDULUM OF FATE
293

"When did you meet Woodhouse before—and where?"

"How do you know I met him before?" She attempted to parry, but Crandall cut her short with a gesture of impatience:

"Please don't try that tack again. Answer those two questions, and you sail in the morning."

Jane Gerson's eyes grew hard, and she lifted her chin in defiance.

"And if I refuse——"

"Why should you?" Crandall affected surprise not altogether unfelt.

"No matter—I do!" The challenge came crisp and sharp-cut as a new blade. Gibraltar's governor lost his temper instanter; his face purpled.

"And I know why!" he rasped. "He's got round you—made love to you—tricked you! I'd swear he was kissing you just the minute I came in here. The German cad! Good lord, girl; can't you see how he's using you?"

"I'm afraid I can't."

Crandall advanced toward her, shaking a menacing finger at her.