Badger waited in the vicinity of the house in a fever of impatience
until Merriwell appeared. Though a more inauspicious time, seemingly,
could not have been found, he had strong confidence in Frank's ability
to aid him. It was a feeling which was invariably produced in the hearts
of all.
He met Merriwell at some distance from the Lee residence, and drew him
away for a talk, in which he acquainted him with what had taken place.
Then Frank went on into the house, and the Westerner recommenced his
vigil.
The interview which shortly followed between Frank and Mr. Lee was of an
interesting and important character. Fortunately, Fairfax Lee had a very
high opinion of Frank Merriwell. Otherwise he would not have heard him
at all in behalf of Badger. Even as it was, he at first listened with
nervous impatience, unwilling to believe that anything could be
presented in the Westerner's behalf.
Merriwell went over the whole ground with great candor and frankness. He
admitted that Badger was intoxicated when lured aboard the _Crested
Foam_. But he asserted his belief that the Kansan was all right at
heart. He laid stress also on the fact, which was now clearly understood
by Fairfax Lee, that Winnie loved the Kansan; and he insisted that the
latter had no real taste for liquor, but was driven into his debauch by
a fit of jealousy.
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