"I have been fishing, madame; behold my success."
He crossed to her side, and with an air of deep pride laid before her three tiny trout.
"Is that all?" she asked doubtfully, fearing lest a smile might hurt his feelings.
"All!" he cried indignantly. "Why, what would you more? There is one apiece."
"Assuredly, but——" then she noted the twinkle in his eyes and burst into a merry laugh.
"Indeed, sir; you have kept your promise nobly. Yet I think we must thank the fates that we are not entirely dependent for our supper upon your skill."
"Ingratitude, thy name is woman! Here have I lain, arm deep in water, for three mortal hours, to catch these—er—tempting morsels, and all I meet with is contempt. Never again, Mistress Barbara."
"And have you not even the story of some monster who hath escaped you, to comfort your heart?" she queried solemnly. "I believe Rupert ever derived much solace from such illusions when he could produce no more substantial triumph."
"Alas, madame, I fear illusions are but little to my taste. But since you scorn my offerings, we had best make as good a meal as we can of the somewhat stale viands which remain to us, and then if you are rested, we ought to make a move."
So they supped, and bidding farewell to the hollow, presently set out on their tramp.