As he spoke, he leaned over the low wall as if drawn toward the place, and his son turned ghastly white and uttered a faint cry.
Chapter Thirteen.
The Compact Sealed.
“No, no, my boy, don’t be alarmed,” said the Major, turning to smile at his son. “It is only that I am a little nervous and impressionable from my illness. But it is strange how a depth attracts, and how necessary it is for boys to be careful and master themselves when tempted to do things that are risky. Upon my word, I marvel at the daring of you fellows in running such a risk as you did the other day.”
“It was not Joe, sir,” interposed Gwyn. “I went down.”
“But I’ll be bound to say my boy was ready to offer.”
The pair of actors in the trouble glanced at each other, and Joe’s cheeks grew red again.
“Take my advice,” said the Major, “as boy or man never do anything risky unless it is for some good reason. One has no right to go into danger unless it is as an act of duty.”