“What do you mean, Captain Molineux?” he continued, his dark eye flashing indignation, and his downy cheek crimsoning with warmth.  “Why this remark before me, sir, and wherefore this reflection on the Canadians?”

“Why really, Mr. Grantham,” somewhat sententiously drawled the captain; “I do not altogether understand your right to question in this tone—­nor am I accountable for any observations I may make.  Let me tell you, moreover—­” this was said with the advising air of a superior in rank—­“that it will neither be wise not prudent in you, having been received into a British regiment, to become the Don Quixotte of your countrymen.”

“Received into a British regiment, sir! do you then imagine that I, more than yourself, should feel this to be a distinction,” haughtily returned the indignant youth.  “But, gentlemen, your pardon,” checking himself and glancing at the rest of the group, who were silent witnesses of the scene; “I confess I do feel the distinction of being admitted into so gallant a corps—­this in a way, however, that must be common to us all.  Again I ask, Captain Molineux,” turning to that officer, “the tendency of the observation you have publicly made in regard to my brother.”

“Your question, Mr. Grantham, might, with as much propriety, be addressed to any other person in the full enjoyment of his senses, whom you see here, since it is the general topic of conversation; but, as you seem to require an answer from me particularly, you shall have it.  My remark referred to the absence of the officer in charge of the gun boat, from the station allotted to him, at a moment when an armed vessel of the enemy is in sight.  Is this the fact, or is it not?”

“By which remark,” returned the other, “you would imply that officer is either guilty of gross neglect or—­”

“I draw no inferences, Mr. Grantham, but, even if I did, I should be more borne out by circumstances than you imagine.”

“It is plain you would insinuate that my brother shuns the enemy, Captain Molineux—­You shall answer to me for this insult, sir.”

“As you please, Mr. Grantham, but on one condition only.”

“Name it, sir, name it,” said the younger officer quickly.

“That it is satisfactorily proved your brother has not shunned the enemy.”

Bitter feelings swelled the heart of the enthusiastic Grantham, as, unconsciously touching the hilt of his sword, he replied:  “If your hope of avoidance rest on this, sir, it will be found to hang upon a very thread indeed.”