He was suddenly swept by a gust of passion.

"Leave words to fools, Sir John, and criticisms to those that can defend them better." "Aye, you talk like a man of blood.

You come hectoring it here in the very house of the dead--in the very house upon which you have cast this blight of sorrow and murder...." "Have done, I say, or murder there will be!" His voice was a roar, his mien terrific.

And bold man though Sir John was, he recoiled.

Instantly Sir Oliver had conquered himself again.