“We are plain men,” he began stiffly.
“Yes, you are very plain, and very stupid.”
At this unexpected retort the two men fell into a gloomy silence, being too much in earnest and too greatly surprised to laugh.
“Ah, dear,” she said, “that I had one woman with me, then I could laugh, and rage, and weep upon her neck within a minute, and have no ill looks in return. Come, my friends, be not angry.”
She gave each one a hand, and each raised it to his lips, which showed that they could express themselves well in deeds, though not in words.
She placed both hands to her cheeks, and her fine eyes glowed as she looked at them.
“It is the kiss of brave men,” she said in low, thrilling tones; “the pledge of your lives to me. Ah, my friends, I read that little act more clearly than what you could tell me in words, and see, for those who love you, for the mother who has treasured you, in return for the homage the strong and brave pay to woman, I kiss you.”
She leant forward, and pressed her lips to their cheeks in turn.
They stood back and straightened themselves with kindling eyes, feeling as the young knight who has received his spurs.
“Out with all lights!” It was the Captain’s voice, ringing out loud and stern.