"Yes, jolly," said Arthur, "buck up."
"I am bucking up."
"You're not even dressed!"
"I am," Rose insisted, distantly, "much more than you think. I've got lots on."
They looked solemnly at one another for a long while without even approaching a "stare out."
"How many runs did you make," Rose asked. She had to repeat the question again before he could hear it distinctly. Besides, he never could believe that her interest in cricket was serious.
"None," he admitted, "but I was not out."
Rose considered. "That's not as good as making runs though."
Arthur heard a slight noise somewhere round the back of the cottage. "Someone coming," he warned.
Rose retreated a few steps and lowered her head.