Jack smothered a smile. The girl was as changeable as a weathercock. And calling him "young man" in that lofty tone, too. Why, she was little more than a youngster herself—couldn't be as old as he.
"Come now," said the girl suddenly, seizing him by the hand. "We have no time to lose. Now is your opportunity."
"Opportunity?"
"Yes, yes"—impatiently. "While the government troops attack, you must release your father and escape."
Jack was amazed. Would this surprising girl never cease astonishing him?
"Do you mean you will help me—actually?"
"Have I not said so?" asked Rafaela impatiently. "And it seems to me I have already been of some trifling aid—actually?"
The sarcasm was not lost on Jack. But he ignored it. Finding he still held the hand she had extended when urging him to follow her, he squeezed it.
"You're—you're fine," he said, enthusiastically.
Rafaela tossed her head, smiling in superior fashion.