"Yes, your Honour," he replied at once.
The language used was so peculiar that he was flustered. It was the first time in his life that any one had "requested him." Hitherto he had always been summarily ordered. What did it mean?
"There is no question of obeying or not obeying," continued the master. "It is a matter for your free choice. If you accept and are successful you will be given as much money as you like—a great deal of money. In fact you may claim what you like. Do you understand?"
"Money is unimportant," rejoined the boy stolidly, dealing with the only point that was intelligible to him. "If I can perform the task it shall be freely done."
He stood with his face very tense waiting to hear what was the ordeal. This was indeed very different from what he had first imagined.
The master said a few words to the other gentlemen in an undertone. Then he resumed the vernacular, using the short clipped sentences of the people, which are very emphatic and precise.
"Listen. It is time that you knew the truth. Already many days have gone by with this battle raging round us, and with all communication cut off. Two weeks ago, according to messages received by us, the foreign army should have arrived. Why has it not come—who is arresting its progress? We must know how long we have to wait. An answer is imperative. Counting all who are here, those who were in residence originally, and those who have come for protection, there are more than three thousand mouths to feed. Already food is insufficient and many are suffering. Our condition must be made known to those who are delaying their advance—otherwise it may be too late. Do you understand?"
The boy nodded, a queer light coming into his eyes. Now his lips remain parted expectantly.
"Yes, your Honour," he said mechanically.
"Well," said the master, "we have cast about for a suitable person to carry a message and I told these gentlemen of you."