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Kyne, Peter B. (Peter Bernard), 1880-1957

"The Valley of the Giants"

"
"It's too bad the circumstances are such that we, who started out to
be such agreeable friends, see so little of each other, Shirley."
"Indeed, it is. However, it's all your fault. I have told you once
how you can obviate that distressing situation. But you're so
stubborn, Mr. Cardigan."
"I haven't got to the point where I like crawling on my hands and
knees," he flared back at her.
"Even for your sake, I decline to simulate friendship or tolerance
for your uncle; hence I must be content to let matters stand as they
are between us."
She laughed lightly. "So you are still uncompromisingly belligerent--
still after Uncle Seth's scalp?"
"Yes; and I think I'm going to get it. At any rate, he isn't going to
get mine."
"Don't you think you're rather unjust to make me suffer for the sins
of my relative, Bryce?" she demanded.
She had called him by his first name. He thrilled. "I'm lost in a
quagmire of debts--I'm helpless now," he murmured. "I'm not fighting
for myself alone, but for a thousand dependents--for a principle--for
an ancient sentiment that was my father's and is now mine. You do not
understand."
"I understand more than you give me credit for, and some day you'll
realize it. I understand just enough to make me feel sorry for you.


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