"I will publicly insult you.

I will strike you," and he drew a step nearer.
"You will do so at your peril," the count said, drawing a pistol from his pocket.

"I know your method, sir, and am prepared for it.

If you lay a finger upon me, if you insult me in public, I will shoot you dead where you stand, and take the consequences." "You shall repent this," Count Smerskoff exclaimed.

"There are lives worse than death, and you shall have cause to remember your words of to-day," and turning round he strode from the room.
Jack was still lounging in the hall as he passed out.