H. Bedford-Jones

“ But a flame of rage had swelled up in Quentin's brain as he comprehended the detective's intent. Iron this helpless girl! A mad fury settled on him—but it did not destroy his caution.
He lowered his left hand, half turning as if to bring down the hand of Enid with his right. At all costs he must prevent this outrage, and the greater danger to her that lay behind it, he felt. So, as Osgood lowered his automatic and reached out with the open handcuffs, Quentin swiftly struck down with his open left hand and knocked the weapon a dozen feet away. ”

“ The girl was standing on the top step still, in silent consternation; she seemed to be leaving it all in his hands, for she must have understood what was passing. Did she believe all this rigmarole? He groaned again at the thought that this absurd affair might have ruined him beyond repair in—her ears for she could know only what she heard. ”

“ He himself had nothing to fear beyond some humiliation, for if Osgood took him back to Los Angeles he would speedily be cleared. But it was another thing with Enid Elsmere. Mathews was the only man who could keep her from Burlington, thought Quentin, and were she to be forced from the island it might go hard with her. ”