"Yes, yes, that is agreed; go on."
"I am terribly afraid."
"Naturally."
"And if your lordship will allow me, I will carry my furs over there, and sleep across the doorway."
"Why so?"
"Because, as I am very frightened, I shall not sleep soundly; and if anyone comes in the night, with ill intentions, he will be obliged to step over me; I shall hear him, and, in that way, be able to warn you, which will give you time to defend yourself."
The young man threw himself back, and burst into a Homeric laugh, in which Bright-eye joined, in spite of his thoughtfulness.
"By Jove!" the Count exclaimed, looking at his servant, who was in amazement at this gaiety, which seemed to him unsuitable at so grave a moment—"I must confess, Ivon, that you are the most extraordinary poltroon I ever saw."
"Ah, sir," he answered with contrition, "it is not my fault; for I do all I can to gain courage, but it is impossible."
"Good, good!" the young man went on, still laughing. "I am not angry with you, my poor fellow; as it is stronger than yourself, you must put up with it."