Jim, I came across this recently...
https:\\appear.in\
It is suppose to work from your browser and doesn't require installation, registration or login. It currently supports Firefox, Chrome and Opera.
Basically, you have to create a "room" that you invite people to chat in by sharing a link with them. You can "claim" and take ownership of a room and set a password. As the owner you can lock the room or kick anyone out. More in the FAQ
here.
I haven't tried it so I can't say how well it works. Nevertheless, I think you could give it a shot. Let us know the results if you do.