"Have I spoken aught but truth? It is not for such as I to give lessons in
journeying, to one who follows the honest trade of a man-hunter. I have
said that which all who dwell in these parts know to be reasonable."
"Surely nought else. But truth is made so powerful in thy hands, that it
needs be taken, like a bitter healing draught, with closed eyes and at
many swallows. One who drinketh of it too freely, may well-nigh be
strangled. I marvel that he who is so vigilant in providing for the cares
of others, should take so little heed of those he is set to guard."
"I know not thy meaning, Faith. When was danger near the valley, and my
musket wanting?"
"The good piece is truer to duty than its master Thou mayest have lawful
license to sleep on thy post, for we maidens know nothing of the pleasure
of the Captain in these matters; but it would be as seemly, if not as
soldierly, to place the arms at the postern and thyself in the chambers,
when next thou hast need of watching and sleeping in the same hour."
Dudley looked as confused as one of his mould and unbending temperament
might well be, though he stubbornly refused to understand the allusion of
his offended companion.
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