"Yes. I won't waste words. Were you and my father enemies years
ago?"
At this direct question Arnold Baxter scowled darkly. "Yes, if
you are anxious to know," he muttered.
"I fancied as much. You tried to swindle him out of some Western
mining property."
"The boot was on the other leg -- he tried to swindle me -- ran
off to Africa with my papers, I think, or else left them somewhere
where I can't find them."
"I do not believe you, for my father was an honest man, while you
are the boon companion of a thief."
"Have a care, boy -- I won't stand everything!" snarled Arnold
Baxter, his eyes gleaning like those of an angry cat.
"I am not afraid of you, Arnold Baxter. I shall hand you over to
the police at our next stopping place!"
"Will you!" hissed the man, and leaped at Dick, bearing him down
to the car floor. At once his hand sought the lad's throat.
"I've a good mind to choke the life out of you," he went on. "I
hate you all -- everyone who bears the name of Rover!" I
"Le -- let up!" gasped Dick, growing purple in the face, while his
eyes bulged from their sockets."
"I'll pitch you off!" was Arnold Baxter's answer, and suddenly he
lifted Dick up in his strong arms and stepped to the open doorway.
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