This time he
did not shrink, but glared back at her balefully. "This is the end! We
have come to the parting of the ways. I will never call you husband
again. If you even speak to me, Thomas Braddock, I shall ask any one
of a dozen men here to beat you as you deserve. Oh, they will be only
too happy to do it! Now, hear me: I am going to take Christine away
from you--forever. Don't curse me yet! Wait! I am not through. This
very night I shall offer my share in this show to Colonel Grand. He
may have it at his own price. If he will not buy, then I shall go
forth and look for another purchaser. I--"
"You're my wife. You can't sell without my consent," he exclaimed.
"Then I will ask the court to give me the right. Now, go! I--"
"You can't take Christine. She's as much mine as she is--"
"I will hear no more. I have given you the last chance to be a man.
This ends it!"
She turned and walked away from him. He knew that it was all over
between them.
Considerably shaken, he went over and sat down on a trunk near the
wall. Suddenly he sprang to his feet with a curious half-laugh, half-
sob.
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