Bandit Love

"That, of course, depends on the brigand," answered Don Carlos, with a

smile. "Of course, if Myra is really scared, and is genuinely afraid

to come to Spain lest she should lose her heart----"

"I am afraid of nothing!" interrupted Myra, exasperated beyond measure;

and immediately she regretted the impulsive words.

"So you will prove the fact by keeping your promise to come to Spain as

my guest?" queried Don Carlos quickly.

"That will depend on whether you know your duty to a guest and your

obligations as a host," retorted Myra curtly, and Tony raised his

eyebrows, surprised by her unusual rudeness.

"I flatter myself, dear lady, that I have a reputation as a host whose

hospitality is boundless," said Don Carlos gravely.

A footman entering with the tea-tray relieved the tension, and Tony

began to question Don Carlos about his trip, and to tell him what sport

he had been enjoying.