He began by repeating the prevalent abuse, then, perceiving that his hearer merely gave assent in general terms, he added:-- 'I shouldn't wonder, though, if there was some reason we haven't heard of--I mean, about the girl, you know.' 'Think so ?' said the other.
'Well, I _have_ heard it said--but then one doesn't care to repeat such things.' 'What's that, eh ?' put in another man, who had caught the words.
'Oh, nothing.

Only the girl's made herself scarce.

Dare say the fault wasn't altogether on one side.' And Mr.Keene winked meaningly.
The hint spread among those on the platform.

Daniel Dabbs happened to hear it repeated in a gross form.
'Who's been a-sayin' that ?' he roared.

'Where have you got that from, eh ?' The source was already forgotten, but Daniel would not let the calumny take its way unopposed.