I'll give you such security as I can--my note--" McBride had laughed dryly at this, and he turned on his heel as though to reenter the office.

Langham shot a quick glance about him; the store was empty, the street before it deserted; he saw through the dingy windows the swirling scarfs of white that the wind sent flying across the Square.

Now was his time if ever! Bitter resentment urged him on--it was a monstrous thing that those who could, would not help him! Near the scales was an anvil, and leaning against the anvil-block was a heavy sledge.

As the old merchant turned from him, he had caught up the sledge and had struck him a savage blow on the head.

McBride had dropped to the floor without cry or groan.
Langham passed his hand before his eyes to blot out the vision of that still figure on the floor, and a dry sob burst from his lips.
"Eh, did you speak, Marsh ?" asked Gilmore.
"No," said Langham in a whisper.
Gilmore laughed.
"You are seeing just how it all happened, Marsh.