'There will be all sorts of sized Indians, I expect,' said Clarence. 'Of course, I don't say they'll come. They may think discretion's the better part of valour when they find we're prepared; but I must say I anticipate an attack myself.'
'I wish you would do without Jack and Guy. Couldn't you?' suggested Cecily.
His eyes gleamed. 'Cecily,' he said, 'tell me the worst—the army are getting in a funk?'
'No,' she cried; and then she resolved to sacrifice their reputation for their safety. 'At least, they haven't said anything; but I'm sure they'd feel more comfortable in the drawing-room. Can't you order them to stay and guard us? You're General.'
'And I am to face the foe alone?' he cried. 'Well, I am older than them' (I must decline to be responsible for the grammar of the characters of this story). 'I have lived my life—I shall be the less missed.... Let it be as you say.'
All this was strictly according to the books, and he enjoyed himself immensely.
'Thank you, dear, dear Clarence. I'd no idea you were so noble and brave. Try not to let those Indians hit you.'
'I cannot answer for the future,' he said; 'but since you wish it I will do my best.'
After all there was some good in girls. Here was one who said exactly the right things, without needing any prompting whatever.
Cecily hunted up Jack and Guy, who were poking about in the house. 'You're not to guard the stockade,' she announced, with ill-concealed triumph.