But in a few minutes’ time, as he walked slowly homeward, he began to smile and think over his position.
“Let him talk and speak loud,” he said. “I thought he was going to threaten me once. What does it matter? My father is dead against it, and he and Master Portlock will make common cause against me. But what does it matter when Aunt Portlock is on my side, and little Sage is as good as won? Then, as to madame, my poor mother? Pish! she will refuse me nothing. So, Master Churchwarden, I have three women on my side, and the game is mine, do what you like.”
He walked on a little way, amusing himself the while by thinking of the divided sides, and how much stronger his must be.
“Let them fight us,” he said, laughing. “We shall be four to two, and we must win; but stay, I had forgotten another enemy—Master Luke Ross. Poor fellow!” he said, contemptuously, “his chance against me is about the value of nil.”
Part 1, Chapter XXVII.
After a Pipe.
Mrs Portlock was in the great kitchen of the farm as Sage hurried through, and she stared with astonishment at the girl’s excited way.
“Why, heyday! Sage—” she began.