‘John’s mortial strong, Mr Carbury.’

’If two men have equal pluck, strength isn’t much needed.  One is a brave man, and the other—­a coward.  Which do you think is which?’

’He’s your own cousin, and I don’t know why you should say everything again him.’

’You know I’m telling you the truth.  You know it as well as I do myself;—­and you’re throwing yourself away, and throwing the man who loves you over,—­for such a fellow as that!  Go back to him, Ruby, and beg his pardon.’

‘I never will;—­never.’

’I’ve spoken to Mrs Pipkin, and while you’re here she will see that you don...