"It is possible that events might happen, about that time, among our regiments in Flanders."
"That, in other words, they would desert to King Lewis?"
"You put it crudely, Captain Runacles. I believe that our gallant soldiers will act with a single eye to their country's welfare; and I am sure they will do nothing that can be constructed as a blot upon their country's flag."
"I also am tolerably certain of that, my lord," answered Captain Jemmy drily. "Come, Jack—your answer?"
The little hunchback had been leaning back, during the last minute or two, with his face in the shadow; but at these words he bent forward. His cheeks were white and drawn.
"Why must I give the answer, Jemmy?" "Because the lad is your son. It rests with you to save him or not."
Captain Barker stood up.
"You'll abide by my decision?"
"Certainly." Captain Runacles crossed his legs and eyed the visitor deliberately.
"Then," said the little man, dragging out the words syllable by syllable, "there, my lord, are your hat and cloak. Oblige me by quitting this house of mine at once."