"If I don't go out like the rest, but just stick to work as long as I can get it, I'm to look to myself, and take the consequences."
Mrs. Holdfast breathed quickly.
"Don't seem I'm to have much choice soon," said John. "I'll have to go out then. Only it'll be because I must, not because I choose. That's all the difference."
"John, wouldn't it be best to go out now? If you'll have to be paid off in a day or two—"
John gave her a steady look.
"You wouldn't have me act as a craven?" he asked. "Give in, for fear of consequences!"
"But if they was to hurt you? There's some among 'em who might do that."
"Then I'd have to bear it."
"Only, wouldn't it be better, just this once—"
"Say the true word, Sarah. Wouldn't it be safer?"