were in league with some others to play me foul at every opportunity. You sent a letter to Roger Morr about me, and another letter to Crumville, to a young lady friend of mine—and you also sent a letter to my sister." At these last words Merwell's hand went up unconsciously to his breastpocket. "You have blackened my character all you possibly could. Now, if I wanted to, I could place you in the hands of the law. But instead, I am going to take it out of you."
"Wha—what do you mean?" And the bully half arose to his feet.
"I mean just what I say, Merwell. Sit down!"
And Dave shoved the bully back on the rock.
"I want you to know"
"Shut up!" And again Dave doubled up his fists. "I am not here to listen to you. I'll do the talking. Now to come to business. First of all, I want those letters."
"What letters?"
"You know well enough."
"I haven't any letters with me."
"Do you want to make it necessary for me to search you?"
"You wouldn't dare, Porter!"
"I shall dare. Now hand over those letters, and be quick about it!"
Again Dave doubled up his fists and something like fire shone in his clear eyes. Merwell hesi-
